After a slight delay, I was driving home Friday when I received confirmation of my vExpert 2018 application. The result?
I am happy to announce that I have officially achieved VMware vExpert 2018! This was my first year to apply, and I am very fortunate to have obtained this award/recognition.
What is VMware vExpert?
Simply put, its a community based program run by VMware. It recognizes those that give back to the community.
How do you become a vExpert?
There are many paths one can take to become a vExpert, such as blogging, advocacy of VMware, and community envolvement (such as attending VMUGS). VMware lists three paths to vExpert: Evangelist, Customer and VPN (VMware Partner Network). I decided to really get serious about eight months ago when I created this blog. I challenged myself to blog and become more involved in the VMware community. Additionally, I was challenged by a good friend, and Central MS VMUG leader, Chestin Hay. If you haven’t already checked out his blog, head on over to Letsv4Real!
I wouldn’t have been able to do it without his encouragement and his advocacy of my blog. It was also made in part by the entire VMware community. Everyone within the VMware community is great!
Does anyone mind sharing their journey to becoming a #vExpert? I’m trying to take the next step, but need a little direction. A little intimidating and overwhelming.
— Stephen Owens (@thevirtualboi) December 14, 2017
The above example is a perfect illustration of how the VMware community rallied behind my tweet to share resources, tips and encouragement! I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them!
Once you see the vExpert registration is open, you apply. You will be asked questions regarding your involvement and list any contributions made to the VMware community. Once you become a vExpert, you must re-apply each year to keep the designation. This past registration period opened in December 2017, and ran to January 2018. It was something I knew I wanted to apply for, but I was a bit hesitant. However, I decided to apply and give it a shot. I am thankful I did!
What does this mean for the future?
I hope to take this and continue to grow my VMware knowledge, specifically in the field of vSAN. If you have been to my blog before, you know that I am doing a series on vSAN. During this process I plan to obtain VMware’s vSAN badge, which is directed at individuals who have a thorough understanding of vSAN. Additionally, I will continue this blog, sharing and writing about topics. I also hope to remain involved with our local VMUG, Central Mississippi VMUG. Finally, if all goes well I may apply for vExpert vSAN.
Tips for those lookin to become vExpert
- Start blogging if you haven’t already.
- Reach out to vExperts on twitter. Get engaged and become involved.
- Get involved with your local VMUG.
- Learn new technologies within a LAB setting and blog about them.
- Share issues as you come across them, share your knowledge with others.
- Network! Spend as much time as you can networking with others in the VMware community.
Perks for VMware vExperts
- VMware recognition
- Exclusive access to online activities and other VMware events
- VMware trial license keys, for use in personal labs
- Access to the vExpert online community
- 3rd Party Vendor Perks, such as free training and trials
- Exclusive use of the vExpert Logo/Badge
As you can see, vExpert has a lot of perks, and gives one a lot of opportunities within the VMWare community. I am very exited and thankful, and I hope to continue learning and growing. This recognition will continue to push me to the next level! If you have any questions, or would like more information on how to become a vExpert, please reach out!
TheVirtualBoi 