The power of GitHub Copilot in your software development

AI as your copilot in code

GitHub Copilot is a large language model, trained on more code than even the most experienced developer could process in a lifetime. But does that make Copilot a good (co-)programmer? And what should you keep in mind as the pilot in command?

In this one-day hands-on training, you'll explore what GitHub Copilot can and cannot do, how to configure it optimally, and where its real value lies. We’ll cover the theory behind Large Language Models (LLMs), effective prompting, code completion, chat, transpiling, test-driven development, security testing, and extending existing applications.

You'll learn how to optimize your collaboration with Copilot: when to trust the AI, when to step in, and how to stay in control of the output. You’ll experience the many benefits and capabilities, as well as its limitations and pitfalls. This enables you to use Copilot as a valuable development partner without handing over your craftsmanship.

This training is delivered by experienced Betabit developers who use GitHub Copilot daily in Azure-based client projects. Their approach is pragmatic and hands-on: directly applicable code, realistic use cases, and a clear focus on quality, security, and effectiveness.

What you’ll learn

After a short introduction to align on goals and experience, you'll work through five blocks combining theory, demonstrations, and hands-on assignments. Adaptable based on experience and knowledge needs.

• Fundamentals
  • How Large Language Models work
  • Coding copilots and their applications
  • GitHub Copilot vs alternatives
  • GitHub Copilot configuration
  • Workshop: repository instructions
• Core features & best practices
  • Autofill, code generation, and chat
  • Transpiling and refactoring
  • Workshop: transpiling COBOL
  • Choosing the right LLM
  • Ask, Edit, Agent modes
  • Workshop: working in Agent Mode
• Additional features
  • Testing and other capabilities
  • Workshop: security testing or test-driven development
  • GitHub-only features
  • Extensions (Marketplace, MCP)
• Mature usage
  • Workshop: building new features with Copilot
  • Code quality, compliance, and security
  • Copilot within the software development lifecycle
• Future and adoption
  • Copilot in Azure
  • OpenAI’s Codex
  • The implications of GitHub Copilot
  • The future of Copilot and AI-assisted software engineering
  • Workshop: adoption plan

Collaborating with your Copilot

Used correctly – and with an understanding of the risks and mitigations – this coding copilot helps you work more efficiently and with more enjoyment. You’ll learn to use Copilot as an extension of your own craftsmanship: fast, safe, and effective.