Blog URL: www.virtualisedreality.com, www.handsonvirtualization.com
Twitter handle: @virtualisedreal
Current employer: computerworld.co.uk
How did you get into IT?
I have always had a passion for IT and technology in general, after studying computing in business at university I joined a technology focused company as a junior in the IT department. After many years working my way through the ranks and being involved with many technologies I discovered VMware and virtualisation. I got the bug and found myself a job with a VMware partner, I have enjoyed many years specialising in virtualisation and related technologies and now enjoy architecting solutions, overseeing implementation and still getting my hands dirty as well as evangelising about the technologies we specialise in.
How did you get into working with VMware and becoming a 2011 vExpert?
Once I started working with VMware on regular basis I found myself using the community resources an increasing amount , so in late 2008 I decided that I should be giving something back to the community and started my blog virtualisedreality.com. I was extremely honoured to receive the vExpert award in 2010 and 2011 for the work I put into my blog and contributing to the community that I still get a lot from today. In 2011 I started a podcast with Jonathan Franconi on HandsOnVirtualization.com, with the aim of learning more about the technology that surrounds the solutions in the industry I work in and to share this knowledge with a wider audience.
What would you tell someone who wanted to get a job like yours to do?
I would advise they ensure they work hard, make the most of the opportunities that are given to them and that they set themselves goals and ensure that they achieve them. I would also highly recommend getting involved with the communities, there are many ways you can get involved from the forums to blogging and twitter, by getting involved you will get to meet some fantastic people and it can open the door to some fantastic opportunities.
