Now is YOUR Chance to Become a VMware vExpert

Since 2018 I have been a VMware vExpert and I must say that I am still proud and honoured of having earned that achievement. Now, YOUR chance to become a vExpert is here, as this year's second round of applications have been opened.

The vExpert program have been a huge boost for me, so in this post I will try to encourage more people to get onboard.

vExpert 2020 Badge

First, what is the VMware vExpert program?

The award is not a technical certification, the vExpert program is an evangelism and advocacy program. It is designed to promote individuals that contribute to communities with their expertise in VMware products and services.

The award is given for one year, and is given to individuals, not companies. Currently there are around 1785 vExperts across 75 different countries.

What do I get out of it?

First and foremost the key takeaway from the program is to be included in a great community, and by that be equipped to bring back even better content to the greater vCommunity.

The networking amongst vExperts, and the information sharing and knowledge you get access to is outstanding.

In addition there are a lot of benefits that comes with the program, including:

  • Licenses, this is a huge thing for many. As a vExpert you get 1 year licenses for most of VMware's products for use in your lab environment
  • Subprograms that can be applied to, i.e Cloud Mgmt, Security, HCX etc with direct access to VMware Business Units
  • Increased visibility on social media with help from the VMware Advocacy program
  • Recognition in the community and in the industry
  • Private webinars with both VMware BUs and VMware partners

There's more as well, many vendors have vExpert benefits like NFR licenses, gifts etc. At VMworld there is usually an exclusive vExpert party, goody bags and so on.

Oh, and you get a nice badge for use on your website or business card.

What do I have to do to become a vExpert?

First, you must apply! The vExpert award is not given to anyone that doesn't go through the application process. So make sure you take the time to put together an application, and make it as detailed as possible. More is more in this case. The guys reading through and voting on applications are vExperts that have gone through the same application process multiple times and they know what it takes.

The application is done through an online form found at the vExpert site. The second half applications is open from June 1st through June 20th 2020. The award announcement will be on July 17th.

As for the criterias they are quite simple. The key is what have you done in the past year in terms of "giving back" to the community. Things that count could be blogging, videos, public speaking, VMUG contributions (i.e. VMUG leadership), book authoring, forum activity etc.

Your content is not expected to be all deep-dives in a particular product/technology. A well prepared "Getting started" guide is just as valuable.

Again, be sure to be detailed in your application. If you have been blogging, don't just put a link to your site. Include some examples of blog posts and explain what they are about. If you have spoken on an event, give some details on the topic, the number of attendees etc.

Where can I get help?

If you need help or guidance on your application, reach out. I'm more than happy to help, but there are also a specific vExpert Subprogram which has helping vExperts as one of it's key objectives. This program is the vExpert PRO subprogram and consists of a special group of vExperts who can guide aspiring and new (and old I hope) vExperts with their applications and their first steps after becoming a vExpert.

So, what are you waiting for? Apply now!

This page was modified on May 29, 2020: Added number of vExperts