As I reflect on VMware Explore 2024, it’s undeniable the Community Area was truly the heart of this year’s event. It’s where the energy buzzed the loudest, where old friendships were rekindled, and where new connections were forged. The community is the backbone of VMware, and this year, we saw that more clearly than ever.
The Busy Hub of Connection and Learning
The Community Area was bustling from start to finish, with non-stop activity across multiple touchpoints. Whether attendees were catching a session in the Community Theater, diving into deep technical discussions in the {code} Theater, or stopping by the VMUG Desk for some engaging conversations, there was always something happening. This space wasn’t just a place to stop by—it became the go-to destination for making meaningful connections, learning from peers, and grabbing some awesome swag (Shoutout to the Formula 1 t-shirts and LEGO sets given away by the VMTN Community and the VMUG hats!”).
Engagement metrics from the event highlight just how active the community was:
- Over 3,500 attendees participated in sessions across both the Community and {code} Theaters.
- The {code} Labs, led by Eric Nielsen and Dale Gassinger, were packed, with 231 labs taken by attendees eager to get hands-on experience with emerging technologies like ChatGPT and PowerShell automation.
- The Community Theater consistently hit capacity, with sessions like BC/DR and Ransomware Recovery for Workloads on VMware VCF and VMware by Broadcom Renewal: Tips, Tricks, and Triumphs reaching over 80 attendees each.
Conversations That Matter
What stood out to me this year wasn’t just the sheer volume of activity, but the quality of the conversations happening in the community space. I was truly impressed by the new faces who were eager to learn and immerse themselves in the VMware ecosystem. There’s a vibrant new generation of community members, and their curiosity and excitement were infectious. At the same time, our core legacy members, the pillars of the VMware community, were as engaged as ever. These individuals have shaped the community for years, and their presence continues to guide us forward. They are not only sharing their wealth of knowledge but also envisioning the future of the community with positivity and optimism. Seeing them interact with new members and witnessing the passing of knowledge and experience from one generation to the next was a highlight for me.
The Heart of VMware Explore
If there’s one word that sums up the Community Area this year, it’s “connection.” It wasn’t just a place for sessions and swag (though those were important!); it was a gathering point where people came to network, share ideas, learn, and hang out. It felt like everyone who came through was excited to be part of something bigger—something that isn’t just about products or solutions, but about belonging to a community that’s constantly evolving, growing, and supporting one another.
I truly believe the community was the heartbeat of VMware Explore 2024. It was the place where people felt at home, where they could ask questions, find answers, or simply sit down and have a meaningful conversation.
What’s Next: Looking to VMware Explore Barcelona
This year’s event was a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the VMware community, but we’re not stopping here. We’re already hard at work preparing for VMware Explore Barcelona, where we’ll build on the momentum from Las Vegas. Expect the same level of energy, engagement, and learning opportunities but with even more ways for the community to connect.
In Barcelona, we’ll once again bring together new and legacy members to share insights, tackle real-world challenges, and continue shaping the future of VMware. Our sessions are already lined up, and we can’t wait to see the community come together again.
A Final Word of Thanks
Before we close the chapter on VMware Explore 2024 Las Vegas, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to making the community area a success. From the behind-the-scenes teams to the community leaders, to every attendee who took part in a session, lab, or conversation—thank you for your passion, your energy, and your commitment to this community. It is your involvement that makes VMware Explore such a special event.
See you in Barcelona!
