Time is running out! It’s time to apply for or recommend someone for the 2013 vExpert program. vExperts are those that make the most important contributions to the VMware community. These are bloggers, book authors, VMUG leaders, speakers, tool builders, community leaders and general enthusiasts. They work as IT admins and architects for VMware customers, they act as trusted advisors and implementors for VMware partners or as independent consultants, and some work for VMware itself. All of them have the passion and enthusiasm for technology and applying technology to solve problems. They have contributed to the success of us all by sharing their knowledge and expertise over their days, nights, and weekends.
Those that are honored with the vExpert title are able to participate in private betas throughout the year, receive free licenses, early access briefings, attend exclusive events, gain free access to VMworld conference materials online, and enjoy other opportunities to interact with VMware product teams. They also get access to a private community and networking opportunities.
As with last year, there are three paths to being designated a vExpert. Each path takes into account the accomplishments and activities over the last year. You must apply to indicate your interest in the program.You do not need to be nominated by someone else, but in some situations a VMware employee reference is recommended. This year VMware doesn’t have a “nomination” form, but they are offering a form with which you can “recommend” that someone else apply. Some VMware programs will also be sending emails to recommend that you apply.
Evangelist Path The Evangelist Path includes book authors, bloggers, tool builders, public speakers, VMTN contributors, and other IT professionals who share their knowledge and passion with others with the leverage of a personal public platform to reach many people. Employees of VMware can also apply via the Evangelist path. A VMware employee reference is recommended if your activities weren’t all in public or were in a language other than English.
Customer Path The Customer Path is for leaders from VMware customer organizations. They have been internal champions in their organizations, or worked with VMware to build success stories, act as customer references, given public interviews, spoken at conferences, or were VMUG leaders. A VMware employee reference is recommended if your activities weren’t all in public.
VPN (VMware Partner Network) Path The VPN Path is for employees of VMware partner companies who lead with passion and by example, who are committed to continuous learning through accreditations and certifications and to making their technical knowledge and expertise available to many. This can take shape of event participation, video, IP generation, as well as public speaking engagements. A VMware employee reference is required for VPN Path candidates.
For more information, visit the vExpert 2013 application site.