Local women in software development are invited to network at 99 Blottles with 25% off wine on Thursday, Oct. 22

SARASOTA, Fla. (Oct. 1, 2026) - She Ships, an all-women networking group for software developers, will host its first Mix & Mingle event on Thursday, Oct. 22, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 99 Bottles Taproom & Bottle Shop in downtown Sarasota, inviting local women at any stage of their career to connect.

The Mix & Mingle is a come-as-you-are evening to share experiences and build connections. Located at 1445 Second St., Sarasota, FL 34236, 99 Bottles will offer 25% off all wines, including white, red, bubbles and rosé. Women at any stage of their software career, from those just starting out to experienced developers, are encouraged to attend.

“We started She Ships because women in tech deserve a community where they can learn from each other without judgement or intimidation,” said Madison Callahan, co-founder of She Ships. “I noticed how difficult it can be to get a foot in the door, and I wanted to help open it. The first gathering is about just talking, getting questions answered and feeling included. There are no wrong answers, and if you’re new to the industry, come on in. It’s about learning from each other, launching new ideas and careers, and lifting each other up.”

She Ships was created to give women in Southwest Florida’s tech community a low-pressure way to connect, learn from each other and grow their careers. The group is supported by Securipolis, a cybersecurity, GRC and privacy firm, and Whelk Works, a web design & development company.

To attend, RSVP through the She Ships website, sheships.dev, or email Tierney McFadden directly. Future gatherings will be announced through She Ships’ website and social platforms. To learn more, register for updates or explore more opportunities, visit sheships.dev, follow @sarasotasheships on Instagram/Facebook or join the SWFL Women Developers LinkedIn group.

About Securipolis

Securipolis is a cybersecurity firm with a focus on AI governance, continuous compliance, and privacy, providing virtual CISO and Data Protection Officer services. Learn more at securipolis.com.

About Whelk Works

Whelk Works is a web design and development studio that builds websites for businesses, specifically retail and restaurants. Under a subscription model that allows owners to focus on their business, while Whelk Works handles their Digital Storefront from website, ecommerce, to social media, Learn more at whelkworks.com.

Media Contact

Tierney McFadden, Marketing and Event Coordinator

tierney.mcfadden@securipolis.com

www.sheships.dev