10 Things Rust Could Learn from Java (and 5 Things Java Should Probably Steal Back)
Conference (INTERMEDIATE level)
MC 3
Rust may be the new systems darling, but it turns out Java solved many of its hardest problems decades ago. In this lighthearted yet practical talk, we’ll explore the top things Rust could learn from Java’s maturity: predictable tooling, stable ecosystems, battle-tested observability, and a developer experience that doesn’t require deciphering obscure compiler riddles. Along the way, we’ll also look at a few places where Java could borrow ideas back from Rust’s approach to safety and modern design. Whether you’re a lifelong Java developer or simply Rust-curious, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for both languages - and a clearer sense of how their philosophies shape the systems we build today.
Scott Gerring
Datadog
Hi! I’m Scott. I’ve worked as various exciting variants of a code-pusher since who-knows-when. These days I work as a Developer Advocate @ Datadog. I live in Switzerland in the rather scenic Berner Oberland.
These days I focus on the technical foundations of software engineering - what does it take to build high-quality software, how can we best use our tools and languages, and how can an awareness of the lower levels of the stack help? I believe that knowledge of these foundational layers influences high-level design and engineering more than we often acknowledge, and I strive to make this understanding more approachable. I’m currently working primarily with Java, Rust, and eBPF.
https://blog.scottgerring.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottgerring/
These days I focus on the technical foundations of software engineering - what does it take to build high-quality software, how can we best use our tools and languages, and how can an awareness of the lower levels of the stack help? I believe that knowledge of these foundational layers influences high-level design and engineering more than we often acknowledge, and I strive to make this understanding more approachable. I’m currently working primarily with Java, Rust, and eBPF.
https://blog.scottgerring.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottgerring/