The Agent MCP Workshop is an instructor-led series designed to guide participants through developing a Java-based server implementing the Model Context Protocol (MCP). The workshop is structured across successive branches—starting with 01-chapter, each representing a progressive lesson where learners will build components of an MCP server from scratch. While self-study is possible, success depends on active instruction and group participation. The introduction also outlines workshop objectives, teaches working with Java’s standard libraries, JSON-RPC messaging, tool registration, agent integration, and hands-on debugging techniques like STDIO-based communication and protocol-level routing. By setting these foundations, the introduction prepares learners to embark on a hands-on path toward building fully functioning, testable MCP-compatible agents and tools.
Key Takeaways
1 Build a working MCP server in Java from scratch—implement JSON-RPC over STDIO, wire up routing, register tools, integrate an agent—and finish with a minimal, testable, MCP-compatible repo.
2 Debug at the wire level—trace STDIO request/response flows to diagnose handshakes, routing, and tool invocation with repeatable troubleshooting habits.
3 Follow a branch-based learning path—complete 00-setup.md prework, then progress 01-chapter → … in instructor-led cohorts that reinforce concepts through collaborative exercises.
4 Internalize MCP fundamentals & reusable patterns—capability discovery, schema-driven tool design, protocol-level routing, and interoperability practices you can apply to future agents and tools.
Speaker
David Parry
Principal Architect @Qodo
David Parry is an accomplished Principal Architect with over 20 years of experience in Software Development. It all began in 1996 when he discovered the fascinating world of programming, with a particular focus on Java applets.
Throughout his illustrious career, David Parry has been involved in various noteworthy projects. He has successfully built and implemented content management systems for a wide range of clients, including the esteemed Johny Walker and its renowned keepwalking.com. Additionally, as a consultant at a Big 4 firm, David played a pivotal role in solving critical issues for numerous customers, demonstrating his expertise in handling complex and high-traffic web platforms.
Never one to shy away from innovation, David Parry has expanded his skills to work on cutting-edge technologies such as mobile and embedded Android TV systems. Leveraging his expertise, he has delivered top-notch streaming services to customers, ensuring they have an exceptional viewing experience.
Currently, David holds the position of Developer Advocate and Consultant overseeing strategic planning and execution of architectural designs for customers. With a deep understanding of software development principles and extensive experience in Java programming, he excels at providing valuable insights and guidance to his team.
Having witnessed the evolution of Java development from its early days to its current state, David Parry's wealth of experience and strategic perspective, combined with his consulting work at a Big 4 firm, make him an invaluable asset in any project or organization he is a part of.
beginner
