Keynote: Making Progress — Alan Kay

Progress in software engineering requires moving beyond mere tinkering toward rigorous systems design, characterized by fault tolerance, late binding, and architectural integrity. Drawing on the success of the Apollo guidance computer, where Margaret Hamilton and Hal Lanning prioritized system stability over simple algorithmic efficiency, modern development must treat software as a complex, interconnected system rather than a collection of isolated programs. True engineering involves understanding the underlying context—the "gold" that elevates knowledge—and implementing robust, scalable structures that prevent failure propagation. Current industry trends, such as browser-based applications and premature optimization, often sacrifice this necessary rigor, leading to fragile systems. By adopting a scientific approach to computing, engineers can create resilient, long-lasting solutions that transcend the limitations of current "normal" practices, ultimately ensuring that software serves as a reliable, high-integrity foundation for critical infrastructure.