Tech Leaders to Know: Derek Bingham

We caught up with Derek Bingham, a well-known name in the developer community and a driving force behind AWS’s engagement with builders across Australia and New Zealand. As a Developer Advocate, Derek bridges the gap between complex cloud technologies and the people who use them—empowering developers through events, talks, and hands-on support. With nearly two decades in tech and a passion for sharing knowledge, Derek brings both deep technical expertise and a strong community spirit to everything he does.

Derek Bingham, Developer Advocate at Amazon Web Services

How did you get into tech?

It’s been a while, in tech terms, a lifetime ago! I originally trained as a Civil Engineer in Belfast, Northern Ireland. But after the dot-com crash in the early 2000s, I became fascinated by the fast-moving world of computers and software. It felt exciting and full of opportunity.

So I jumped in and spent the next decade learning how to build software across different companies, startups, SMEs, and large enterprises. That journey eventually brought me to Perth, Western Australia. About eight years ago, I joined AWS as a Solutions Architect, and later followed my passion for community to become the first Developer Advocate for AWS in ANZ.

What inspired your shift from engineering to tech?

Honestly? I didn’t want a “normal” career. In Belfast, that could’ve meant working in a shipyard. The internet felt like freedom. It was evolving rapidly, and I could see a future full of opportunity, and even travel. Funny enough, my first job in tech was with British Airways.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned as a tech leader in AU/NZ?

Always give back Tech is at its best when people support each other. Community is what makes this industry thrive, and it only grows when we choose to be part of it.

If you weren’t in tech, what would you be doing?

I’d probably still be in engineering. My first real job was surveying sewers in Belfast, and yes, it was as awful as it sounds!

What makes a great software engineer stand out?

It’s not just about code. Sure, you might have a high LeetCode score, but I want to know:

• Have you ever shared something with your peers?

• Have you contributed to a community or talked about your challenges?

Those who give back, communicate, and collaborate—that’s who stands out. There's always someone who can code faster, but not everyone can lead or lift others.

What do you look for when hiring developers?

Curiosity. Communication. Community mindset Tech skills matter, but so does your ability to connect, share, and grow with others.

How do you encourage learning in your team?

Hire people who value growth and protect time for them to keep learning. We all need “sharpening the sword” time. Whether that’s exploring new tools, reading, or experimenting, it needs to be part of the culture.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Read Mindset by Carol Dweck earlier. It taught me that skills aren’t fixed. You can grow with effort. Setbacks are just part of learning. Feedback is a gift. And success often comes from perseverance, not raw talent.

What’s one tech trend you think was overhyped?

Probably the Windows Phone. It had potential but never really landed. That said, I think all tech goes through a hype cycle, some just find their place later.

What’s one piece of technology you wish existed today?

Teleportation, easy! I travel a lot, and I hate flying. Sci-fi has me dreaming of instant travel, and I’d happily skip the airport queues.

What’s your current go-to productivity tool?

Amazon Q Developer I use it all the time, for building demos, structuring talks, writing blogs. Generative AI tools like this have made me so much more productive. I honestly can’t live without it right now.

How do you unwind outside of work?

Cycling is my escape. I ride 3–4 times a week, about 200km when I’m home. I’m also a big fan of sci-fi and fantasy novels. Right now, I’m deep into The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson. Proper nerd stuff.

Derek’s story is a reminder that tech isn’t just about building software—it’s about building people, communities, and opportunities.