Name: Paul Wood
Blog URL: http://www.virtualwood.co.uk
Twitter handle: @PaulJAWood
Current employer: Xtravirt
How did you get into IT? I got IT when I started looking at computers around the age of 6 with a Spectrum 16k (Classic black unit with the rubber keys) which was later upgraded to 48k.I started programming using this and my interest carried on from there. I have always built my own desktop machines and networks, this got me into my first job of supporting, and installing networks as a field engineer for a company called Network Group.
How did you get into working with VMware and becoming a 2012 vExpert? I got into VMware when I was tasked at looking at VMware as a solution for a secure environment, which Paul Davey (Xtravirt CTO) and I were designing on hardware that was becoming end of life.
I believe I was awarded the VMware vExpert due to my work on a project where the VMware Migration Manager PSO tool was required.This enabled me to work closely with the VMware development team for the product to create bespoke add-ons and enhance the user experience. Due to this work I was invited to participate in the beta testing of the product which was released in GA form last year and received thanks from VMware for my feedback and contributions.
What would you tell someone who wanted to get a job like yours to do? My advice would be to “Study, get your own home lab built, learn as much as you can and continue trying to learn more and challenge yourself. In this industry, it is a necessity to have a home lab or a shared lab where you can install, test and learn all the latest technologies. I would also recommend people follow all the twitter feeds and forums for your industry and interests as these are always full of knowledge from some of the smartest people in the industry and you can learn so much from all of them.
