Name: Gurusimran "GS" Khalsa
Blog URL: http://www.vbrowncoat.com
Twitter handle: @gurusimran
Current employer: Presidio
How did you get into IT?
I've always enjoyed computers and using them to be more effective and efficient. That interest and curiosity helped me get into IT.
To get a little more specific, I was working for a food manufacturing company in Eugene Oregon managing the purchasing department. The IT Dept for the company was one person and we had a horribly antiquated ERP system so whenever I needed anything I had to figure out how to get it/do it for myself. I learned a lot about Excel, Access and handled any IT requests for my department myself. It got to where other departments were coming to me for help and I think at that point my boss asked if I wanted to switch to IT.
I gave him an enthusiastic "Yes", started out as most do doing help desk and here I am now.
How did you get into working with VMware and becoming a 2012 vExpert?
My first exposure to virtualization was in 2004 and it feels odd saying it but it actually was with Microsoft Virtual PC 2004. I immediately saw the potential of it and went to work trying to convince my boss and his boss of the value. A little while later I found ESX and the rest is history.
I became a vExpert as a result of my time running the New Mexico VMUG. As soon as I found VMware I wanted to share that experience with others and the first opportunity I had to do that was when I moved to New Mexico. At my first meeting they asked for a volunteer to share the leadership of the VMUG and I practically jumped out of my seat shouting "Pick me!" I was the only one who volunteered and within 9 months I was leading the VMUG. I had a lot of help and had a lot of fun.
What would you tell someone who wanted to get a job like yours to do?
I think to do it well this kind of work has to be something you're passionate about and that you really enjoy doing. It takes being happy and willing to constantly learn. Another key to getting and being successful in a job like mine is a willingness to share and participate in the larger community. Helping others is a great way to learn and grow.
