There are many IT conferences out there. Some have the glitz and glamor of Apple’s Worldwide Developer’s Conference. Some have every vendor for a particular space like Java One or any of the Microsoft conferences. In my opinion, however, there is no better conference for learning new skills that you can use the following Monday than No Fluff Just Stuff (NFJS). I will be attending it in Chicago for the third year in a row this year and I can’t wait.

For those of you who have never been to a NFJS, it is a two and a half day conference (Friday afternoon threw Sunday) that is held in a number of locations around the country. They routinely bring the best of the best to these conferences. Think of your favorite IT author and there is a good shot at meeting him there. And yes, I said meet. The speakers are very open and available during the show. Want to talk with Neal Ford? Say hi to him in the halls. Have a question for Scott Davis? Ask him at lunch.

This is a conference I truly look forward to each year and this is no exception. Even if I come back and use nothing I learn right away. The extra tools this conference gives me makes me a better developer because I can make more informed decisions about the problems I face day to day.

Has anyone been to a NFJS this year? Is anyone planning on going to the Chicago one in November? If so, let me know in the comments!