Beyond the prompt: Modern engineering in an AI-first world
Location CGI Leeds office, 1 Whitehall Quay, Leeds LS1 4HR
Date and time 30 September 2026, 17:30 – 21:00






Join CGI and Skipton Building Society to explore how modern engineering is being transformed by AI and why the future belongs to teams that combine technology with engineering excellence.
We’ll look at how AI is being applied in engineering teams today, the governance and practices needed to adopt it safely, and the skills that will define the next generation of engineers.
Discover real insights from Skipton Building Society’s journey from manual, time-consuming and high-risk software releases to secure, automated deployments delivered in minutes.
Expect honest conversations, practical lessons and the opportunity to connect with fellow engineers, architects and technology leaders.
17:30 Arrival, networking and refreshments
18:00 Welcome speech
18:10 Lightning Talk 1: Secure, automated and developer-led delivery – how modern engineering practices create the foundations for AI-ready software delivery.
18:35 Lightning Talk 2: The engineering experience – how AI is changing engineering and the skills that matter most.
19:00 Networking, food and refreshments
19:20 Expert panel discussion: Leaders will debate the future of engineering and what AI means for careers and skills
21:00 Event close
This event is ideal for anyone exploring the evolution of AI in software engineering including engineers, architects and technology leaders. Whether you’re a developer experimenting with AI-infused tooling or a senior leader guiding engineering teams through change, you’ll gain practical ideas, fresh perspectives and a clearer view of modern engineering in an AI-first world.
As AI takes on more technical implementation, engineers are increasingly focused on orchestration, solution design, governance, and understanding business needs.
Watch our recent interview with CGI leaders on how AI is reshaping the skills and responsibilities of software engineers.
Raj Fowler – Director of Engineering at Skipton, and former Amazon tech leader
Mike Winter – Vice President Consulting Expert, CGI UK
Joe Hodkinson - Senior Apps & AI Solution Engineer, Microsoft
Skipton Building Society prepares for the next century of banking with CGI Skipton Building Society partnered with CGI to digitally transform the 170-year-old institution. Together, we put customer and User Experience, Cloud and Data at the heart of a comprehensive programme to revolutionise Skipton’s business and service.

As Headline Sponsor of Leeds Digital Festival 2026, CGI is excited to launch a series of events throughout the programme. We’re shining a light on the projects, partnerships and people trailblazing in Leeds and helping to grow the region.

As one of the world’s largest IT and business consulting services firms, CGI has a strong and growing presence across Yorkshire, with offices in Leeds, Sheffield and York.
We were proud to have been recognised as a 2026 Top Company to work for in Leeds by LinkedIn, highlighting our commitment to careers and nurturing talent in the region.
Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest IT and business consulting services firms in the world. We are insights-driven and outcomes-based to help accelerate returns on your investments.