I’m not one to toot my own horn (even though social networks seem more tolerant of this) but I had to mention two pieces of news I received this month: For 2010, I’m a VMware vExpert and a Microsoft MVP!
VMware vExpert
VMware gives its vExpert award to “individuals who have significantly contributed to the community of VMware users over the past year.” This isn’t a sign of deep secret technical knowledge, only that one is committed to assisting the user community.
I personally don’t know VMware ESX all that well technically speaking. But I do know storage, and I’ve spent a few years trying to figure out the impact of server virtualization on enterprise storage. I’ve even got a section on this blog dedicated to the topic, and I’ve started a blog at VMware’s Communities site as well. I have also been documenting Storage Changes in VMware. I also join the VMware Community Roundtable discussion as often as I can, and presented a series of seminars on the topic of virtual storage in the past. Server virtualization is part of the modern datacenter landscape, and we all would be wise to include that in our gestalt!
I believe VMware is recognizing this attempted contribution with the vExpert award. Put simply, I see the value in server virtualization and want to help the storage world integrate in this new space. And I’ll continue to work toward that, regardless of my award status!
Microsoft MVP
I was also notified that my status as a Microsoft MVP in the area of File System Storage has been renewed. I first received this recognition in 2008 (see my post Storage MVP: I Feel Great!) and it was renewed again for 2009 (see Dustin Pedroia And I Have Two Things In Common!). It’s great that I’ll be able to continue my involvement with Microsoft for another year!
Again, this did not come because I have a deep understanding of NTFS, despite the “File System” moniker”. Microsoft recognized me because I spent time helping folks understand the unique world of Windows storage in articles, presentations, and on my blog. I also participated in the improvement of Microsoft’s storage features, giving feedback on the iSCSI initiator, Windows Storage Server, and other storage-related components. Today, I’m pleased to see Microsoft offering solid (though under-rated) support for many enterprise technologies. They lead the way in some areas (e.g. VSS) and lag in others (e.g. FCoE). But on the whole, Microsoft is a good storage citizen.
The MVP award includes access to product managers, other MVPs, and software (in the form of a TechNet subscription) but little else. Although we do have an NDA (the only one I’ll sign – see 5 Tips To Avoid Violating NDAs), we don’t get much insider or advance information. It’s really about engagement, and I appreciate that.
Stephen’s Stance
I’m just really honored to be considered for both of these awards. Although some call me an expert, I wouldn’t go that far. I’m more interested in sharing knowledge, helping others where I can and seeking assistance in return. Being a vExpert and MVP helps me do that, and I thank VMware and Microsoft for the opportunity.