We are part of the biggest digital disruption of this century.
For engineers, IT managers, and CIOs, this represents a fundamental shift in how we work, collaborate, and make decisions. Technology is advancing exponentially, and the world is constantly changing—just like the organizations we’re part of. The impact of the choices we make is growing ever greater. What seems sensible today may pose a risk tomorrow. This requires more than just knowledge. It requires vision, leadership, and a focus on people.
During Rockstars Valley 2026 on October 6, we will create an environment where professionals can come together to deepen their insights, broaden their perspectives, and refine their decisions.
Through inspiring sessions, thought-provoking discussions, and focused reflection, we are building a shared vision for the future of engineering.
Not just random ideas, but a concrete direction. Not abstract trends, but practical insights.
Tech conference
In a world that is changing at lightning speed, it is not enough to keep up. Anyone who wants to make a difference - as an IT professional, organization or leader - must think ahead, strategize and actively shape the future.
On Tuesday, October 6, 2026, during the fourth edition of Rockstars Valley, we will bring together more than 600 engineers, clients, and CIOs at the Johan Cruijff ArenA for Rockstars Valley 2026: “Engineering Under Pressure.”
During Rockstars Valley 2026, we will once again present The Rockstars Awards.
An ode to guts, impact, culture and stories that make a difference in tech. Do you know a team or project that should be in the spotlight?
Let’s hear from you and nominate them for the Rockstars Innovator, Social Impact, Happiness or Engineering Under Pressure Award!
This is what you can expect
- Visionary keynote speeches by leading thinkers in the fields of AI, cloud sovereignty, security, and performing under pressure
- Breakout sessions that combine inspiring real-world examples with in-depth discussion, leading to concrete insights
- Meet like-minded people from the IT world who understand your challenges and build valuable connections during the networking reception
- The Rockstars Awards, where we celebrate guts, impact and culture
Topics
At Rockstars Valley ’26, the themes of AI, cloud sovereignty, and security will shape the conversation about the future of engineering.
Artificial Intelligence is fundamentally transforming processes and raising new dilemmas regarding accuracy, environmental impact, and workplace well-being. At the same time, the growing dependence on big tech from North America and Asia raises important questions about Europe’s digital sovereignty. On top of that, security challenges are increasing. With the rise of AI and quantum technology, risks are becoming greater and more complex.
The time to wait and see is running out. Now is the moment to take a stand and take action.
AI ImpactDevelopments around AI are moving at lightning speed and have a major impact on the work of Engineers. How should you deal with this, what will this mean for your role as an engineer? And what does this mean for a manager if the dynamics within the team are going to change because of AI?
There is increasing pressure to bring Cloud back to Europe. What is possible in this, what choices to make and what is realistic?
Security
Data breaches and hacks are a daily occurrence. How prepared is your team to deal with them? What measures are needed to keep your data secure in the age of AI?
People First
Engineering Under Pressure requires more than technical skills. It requires a focus on people and collaboration. People First is about performing when the pressure is on, from leadership and soft skills to (neuro)diversity and inclusion.
Program
You can find an overview of the Rockstars Valley ’26 program here. Our keynote speakers for the TED-style talks have been announced and will set the tone for the day.
Be sure to check out the breakout sessions in advance to see which topics you’d like to explore in more depth. We look forward to welcoming you on October 6!
Please note: The times listed are subject to change and may be adjusted.
Speakers
The keynote speakers for Rockstars Valley have been announced! In four TED Talks, our keynote speakers will take us on a journey through various topics - from the impact of AI and security to people under pressure.
Wietse Hage Software Developer, Philosophy of Technology Specialist, and Podcast Host
Inge Bryan, Leading expert in cybersecurity, intelligence, and law enforcement|
Brankele Frank, neurobiologist and author of *The Big Book of De-Stimulation*
Edwin van der Sar, Former General Manager of Ajax
We’re excited to announce the first breakout speakers, including a number of specific sessions. This list will continue to grow, so be sure to check back often for new names!
Antoine Tielbeke
Cloud Engineer and European Cloud Expert
Antoine works exclusively with European and open-source tools based in Europe. His talk focuses on cloud sovereignty.
Koen Sterken
Product Owner and Agile Lead
In addition to technical development, Koen also focuses on the importance of neurodiversity in the workplace.
Marc Heusdens
Product Owner, AI Tribe Lead, and Entrepreneur
In addition to technical development, Marc also focuses on the importance of neurodiversity in the workplace.
Christoph Martens
Security Engineer
Chris is a Cyber Defense Engineer with a strong focus on automated malware reverse engineering, real-time analysis of malware infections within botnets, and the development of strategic counterattacks against large-scale APTs.
Ramona Domen
Software Engineer, International Speaker, and Community Leader
Ramona is a software engineer and impact leader at Team Rockstars IT. As a Microsoft MVP and speaker with a passion for creating inclusive and accessible applications
Benjamin Abbenhues
Senior Cyber Defense Specialist
Benjamin works in security operations on a daily basis and supports analysts and teams with investigations, processes, and incident response.
Roel van Bergen
AI Engineer and Trainer
Roel is a software engineer at Team Rockstars IT, with experience in .NET, cloud, software architecture and AI-assisted development.
Robin Hogendorf
Account Manager, Brand Partnerships at AFC Ajax
Robin has been working at AFC Ajax for 5 years. In his role as Brand Partnerships Account Manager, he is closely involved in the partnership with
Team Rockstars IT.
Kimmy Gommers
Sponsorship Manager
Kimmy works every day to foster connections and collaboration with AFC Ajax as part of the sponsorship program.
Jasper Loos
Principal Consultant
Jasper is a Principal Consultant at Team Rockstars IT.
Scaleway
Cloud Sovereignty
Scaleway is Europe’s sovereign cloud and AI provider, offering a secure, transparent, and sustainable platform. We empower organizations of all sizes to build and scale on their own terms using open, independent technologies and continuous innovation.
Vandebron
Cloud Sovereignty
Reserve your spot at Rockstars Valley ’26
Team Rockstars IT is organizing Rockstars Valley for the fourth year in a row. Ticket sales have officially begun. Tickets are €399 per person.
Event informatie
Bedrijf: Team Rockstars IT
Datum: 06 oktober 2026Inschrijven voor: 05 oktober 2026
Type event: Seminar
Doelgroep: Professionals (IT-managers, ingenieurs, CIO's)
Locatie: Amsterdam
Inschrijven
