DataConLA

​Now in its 14th year, Data Con LA is Southern California's longest-running volunteer-run data conference. This full-day event brings together data scientists, engineers, analysts, AI/ML practitioners, and both industry leaders and newcomers to learn from each other, share what actually works, and make real connections.

​Kwaai was launched at DataConLA in 2023

​At DataConLA 2026, Kwaai presents a panel on Decentralized AI: Safer , Faster, and Greener

​Moderated by Reza Rassool

​Panelists to be announced

​AI is reshaping the work. Not theoretically, not eventually, right now. Data Con LA 2026 is built around the real, practical, sometimes uncomfortable conversation about what the data profession looks like from here.

​Highlights

• ​4 Specialized Tracks:

  • ​AI/ML & Data Science

  • ​Data Engineering & Ops

  • ​Business Analytics & Reporting

  • ​Data Career Development

• ​Expert Speakers: Industry leaders from top tech companies, universities, and innovative startups

• ​Premium Networking: Match & Mingle activities, networking lunch, and post-conference reception

• ​Actionable Insights: Real-world case studies and practical implementations you can use immediately

• ​For All Levels: Content designed for beginners through advanced professionals

• ​Full Conference Package: Includes all sessions, lunch, refreshments, and networking events

​Four Focused Learning Tracks

​Four specialized tracks, each curated to address the evolving needs of today's data community:

• ​AI/ML & Data Science: Discover breakthrough techniques and real-world applications at the forefront of artificial intelligence and machine learning. This track showcases innovative methodologies, emerging frameworks, and the practical wisdom needed to deploy intelligent systems at scale.

• ​Data Engineering: Master the art and science of building resilient data systems. From streaming architectures to cloud-native platforms, learn the engineering practices that enable organizations to harness data reliably and efficiently in production environments.

• ​Business Analytics & Reporting: Transform data into strategic advantage. This track emphasizes practical approaches to visualization, storytelling with data, and delivering insights that drive organizational impact and informed decision-making.

• ​Data Career Development: Chart your path in the data landscape. Whether you're breaking into the field, pursuing your next role, or building your professional network, this dedicated track provides actionable guidance, industry insights, and meaningful connections to accelerate your career.

​The 2026 Lineup Is Live

​The full slate is set: a keynote, four practitioner panels, and 22 talks across our four tracks. Speakers are joining us from Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, Zillow, Oracle, Microsoft, Intuit, Optum, UCLA, and Caltech, alongside founders, independent consultants, and the engineers building the tools the rest of us rely on.

​Four practitioner panels

• ​AI in Practice

• ​Founders in Data

• ​Building a Data Career

• ​Women in Data

​A few of the talks

• ​Arbitrage and Insider Trading in Polymarket: Evidence and Implications
  Guang Cheng, UCLA

• ​Is AI Putting Data Science Teams Out of Work, Too?
  Jeff Allen, Flikforge Inc.

• ​Domain Modeling in the Age of AI: Why the Semantic Layer Is the New Bottleneck
  Meena Chokkalingam, Zillow

• ​Why Analytics Teams Don't Scale, and How We Fixed It
  Rae Wang, Optum

​See the full lineup, abstracts, and speaker bios on our event page.

​Match & Mingle Returns

​Our Match & Mingle program pairs you with another attendee based on your professional interests and background, and this year possibly a small group, facilitating meaningful connections beyond typical networking. It's your chance to build a lasting professional relationship within our data community. You'll see the opt-in option during registration, we encourage you to participate!

​Resume Review Table

​New for 2026: a resume review table staffed by hiring managers and recruiters who can give you a quick, honest take on your resume. If you're job hunting, bring a copy.

​Your Day at Data Con LA

• ​8:00 AM - Doors open, registration & morning refreshments

• ​9:00 AM - Opening keynotes

• ​10:30 AM - 12:15 PM - Morning track sessions

• ​12:15 PM - 1:15 PM - Networking lunch (provided)

• ​1:15 PM - 4:00 PM - Afternoon track sessions

• ​4:00 PM - 5:00 PM - Community mixer & closing networking

​Join the Conversation

​Data Con LA 2026 is where Southern California's data community comes together to share knowledge, spark collaborations, and shape the future of our field. Join our Discord to ask questions and connect before the event. Secure your spot today and be part of the region's most anticipated data event.