Why so many vExperts work at ITQ

A few weeks ago, Catalin Cristescu wrote a blog?about the vExpert program from VMware/Broadcom. His blog describes the program this way:

"The vExpert program, initiated by VMware by Broadcom, is a community recognition initiative that honors individuals for their substantial contributions to the VMware community. Open to anyone passionate about VMware products and services, the program seeks those who actively share their knowledge, expertise, and feedback within the community."

In his blog, he uses a PowerShell script to show which countries and companies have the most vExperts. For us at ITQ, it is great to see that, apart from VMware/Broadcom, we are ranked number 2 globally with the most vExperts. In total, there are about 1300 vExperts in the world, of which 39 are part of the ITQ Team. There are several reasons why we have so many vExperts within ITQ.

First, we have been one of the top partners for VMware globally for years, with the highest statuses in all areas and all certifications. We have achieved much success for our customers over the past decades with VMware technology.

At ITQ, we believe that "power is gained by sharing knowledge, not hoarding it". It's a famous quote we live by: many colleagues have their own blog or platform where they share their knowledge. We also share knowledge that we gain in projects, when we test products, or from developments we see happening in the market. There are more ways our colleagues contribute to the community. For example, we have fantastic speakers at worldwide events, code warriors, and authors of books within our organization.

There are more deciding factors why so many vExperts work at ITQ: we have people who actively drive and support the vExpert program. For us, that is Richard van Dantzig. He encourages colleagues to share knowledge within the community by giving internal sessions about the program, he coaches colleagues in writing blogs, and sometimes just gives them a little push :-). A few years ago, his efforts earned him a place in the vExpert PRO subprogram. Here, he also supports people in the community outside of ITQ. To achieve the vExpert PRO status, he supports them with their application or certain things within the vExpert program. He supports people at partner organizations, but also individuals working with our competitors. It's about the community for us and not about commercial interest. If you are active in the VMware community but not yet a vExpert, send Richard a message.

Sharing knowledge through presentations is an important part of the vExpert program, and that's why we have been investing in the VMUG for years by providing many speakers, leaders, financial resources, and of course, our massive presence.

A fun detail is that most of our newly hired colleagues are not part of the vExpert program. However, a large part joins at some point, which is why we continue to grow in numbers of vExperts year after year.

Within ITQ, we believe that speed is the new currency. We need (and want!) to continuously develop ourselves to bring value to our customers. The great advantage of sharing knowledge with others is that you really have to "breathe" a subject and build in-depth knowledge. After all, you want to share a good story and add valuable information to either your colleagues or to customers ;-). The fun part of this is that you learn and share at the same time.

We believe all of this is crucial to stay ahead as a technology partner for our customers in this fast-paced world. The vExpert program is a wonderful platform to bring people together by creating a group that can support each other, encourage collaborations, and share opportunities, recognizing our presence at the forefront of sharing knowledge.

If you have any questions about the program please send me an email on [email protected]