Write Code. Do Demos. Party On.

Expect similar stories to come from future Gatherings. Companies have begun flooding the event with recruiting fliers and offers of finder's fees for participants who recruit friends to become employees. Organizers of the Gathering, along with computing clubs like Norwegian Nerds, don't mind all of the attention -- but they're hoping for a bit more creativity on the part of companies.

For instance, Norwegian Nerds is starting an Adopt-a-Nerd program, in which companies will train computer enthusiasts for a year in order to prepare them for tech jobs. "Don't give people a pamphlet, give them a challenge," suggests Nerds organizer Leif Strom, 35. "Money isn't a challenge. Give them a CD-ROM, more RAM, or flexibility in their schedule."