As we approach the new year, there’s an exciting opportunity for VMware enthusiasts and contributors to join one of the most prestigious global communities in tech: the VMware vExpert program. Applications for the 2025 vExpert program are now open, with a deadline of January 24th, 2025. The awards will be announced in mid to late February, marking the beginning of another year of innovation, collaboration, and recognition for those who actively contribute to the VMware ecosystem.
In this blog post, I’ll dive deep into the value of being a vExpert, what it takes to earn this award, and how to submit a strong application. As a proud vExpert PRO and someone who has been part of this incredible community for years, I’ll also share tips to help you stand out during the application process.
The Value of Being a VMware vExpert
The VMware vExpert program is much more than just a title—it’s a gateway to opportunities that can elevate your career, expand your network, and amplify your voice in the tech community. Here’s why you should consider applying:
- Content Promotion
As a vExpert, your content—whether it’s blog posts, videos, or podcasts—gets significant exposure through VMware’s official channels. VMware promotes vExperts’ contributions via platforms like @vExpert and @VMwareExplore on Twitter (X), LinkedIn, Broadcom Advocacy, and even the VMware blog RSS feed. This visibility can drive substantial traffic to your work and establish you as a thought leader in your area of expertise.
- Building Your Personal Brand
The vExpert badge is recognized globally as a mark of excellence within the VMware ecosystem. Being part of this group enhances your credibility and strengthens your personal and professional reputation. Whether you’re looking to grow within your current role or explore new opportunities, the vExpert title makes you stand out in the competitive tech industry.
- Professional Recognition
Your name will be listed in the official vExpert Directory, which is widely referenced by organizations looking for experts in VMware technologies. Adding “vExpert” to your LinkedIn profile is another way to showcase your achievements and contributions to potential employers or collaborators.
- Complimentary VMUG Advantage Membership
vExperts receive a free VMUG Advantage membership, which includes benefits like:
- Free VMware licenses for home labs (including VCF Home Lab licenses).
- Discounts on certification exams and training courses.
- Access to exclusive VMUG events and resources.
This membership alone is worth applying for!
- Exclusive Networking Opportunities
Being a vExpert connects you with a global network of passionate professionals who share your enthusiasm for VMware technologies. You’ll gain access to an exclusive vExpert chat platform where you can interact with other vExperts, industry leaders, and even VMware employees. These connections often lead to collaborations, mentorships, and lifelong friendships.
- NDA Briefings and Early Access Content
As a vExpert, you’ll get early access to VMware’s roadmap through non-disclosure agreement (NDA) briefings and pre-release content. This insider knowledge allows you to stay ahead of industry trends and prepare for upcoming changes in VMware’s product portfolio before they’re publicly announced.
- Blogger Passes to VMware Explore
vExperts are eligible for complimentary blogger passes to VMware Explore, one of the biggest events in the tech industry. While these passes are limited in quantity, they provide an excellent opportunity to attend sessions, network with peers, and create content around cutting-edge developments in VMware technologies.
What It Takes to Earn the vExpert Award
The vExpert program celebrates individuals who go above and beyond their regular job responsibilities to contribute to the broader VMware community. For 2025 applications, only contributions made during 2024 will be considered—and remember that work-related tasks don’t count toward eligibility!
Here are some common paths that lead to earning the award:
- Enterprise / Internal Influencers
If you’re driving VMware adoption within your organization by hosting internal webinars, mentoring colleagues on VMware technologies, or leading internal innovation projects, this could qualify as a contribution—provided it extends beyond your job description.
- Bloggers
Regularly sharing technical insights through blog posts is one of the most popular ways to contribute to the community. Whether it’s troubleshooting guides, best practices, or deep dives into specific products like VCF or Tanzu, blogging demonstrates your expertise while helping others learn.
- Code Sharing
If you’ve contributed open-source projects or code samples related to VMware technologies (e.g., PowerCLI scripts or Terraform modules), these efforts are highly valued by the community.
- VMUG Leaders
Organizing local VMUG (VMware User Group) meetings or events is another excellent way to give back to the community while fostering local connections.
- Event Speakers
Presenting at conferences like VMware Explore or local VMUG meetups about topics such as SDDC architecture or storage solutions is another recognized contribution.
- Podcasters & Content Creators
Producing podcasts or video tutorials focused on VMware technologies is another impactful way to share knowledge with the community.
- Online Forum Support
If you’re active on platforms like Broadcom Community forums or Reddit’s r/vmware subreddit—answering questions and helping others troubleshoot—you’re already contributing!
- Authors & Technical Writers
Writing books or technical papers about VMware products demonstrates deep expertise and commitment.
How to Apply for the vExpert Award
Applying for the program is straightforward but requires careful preparation:
- Collaborate with a vExpert PRO: If this is your first time applying—or if you’re unsure how best to present your contributions—reach out to a vExpert PRO like myself! We’re here to guide applicants through the process and provide feedback on applications.
- Engage with the Community: Amplify vExpert-related posts on social media by retweeting announcements or sharing relevant content from Broadcom Advocacy.
- Document Your Contributions: Be thorough when listing your activities from 2024—include URLs where possible (e.g., links to blog posts or event recordings). Providing proof makes it easier for reviewers.
- Write Your Story: Use your application as an opportunity to tell your unique story—what motivates you? How have you impacted others through your contributions?
- Submit Your Application: Head over to https://vexpert.vmware.com/apply before January 24th!
ITQ & The vExpert Community
At ITQ, we’re proud of our strong presence within the vExpert community—with an impressive 36 current vExperts on our team! However, we anticipate some changes next year as our EUC consultants may not apply due to EUC transitioning into Omnissa after its separation from Broadcom/VMware.
This makes it even more important for other contributors within ITQ—and beyond—to step up and showcase their efforts in areas like SDDC (VCF), surrounding ecosystem (NetApp, Dell, Nvidia, etc), cloud-native technologies (Tanzu), and more.
Conclusion
The VMware vExpert program isn’t just about earning recognition—it’s about becoming part of a vibrant global community that thrives on collaboration and shared knowledge.
If you’ve been contributing in any way—whether through blogging, speaking at events, mentoring others, or supporting forums—I encourage you not just to apply but also to aim high! Work with a vExpert PRO if needed (I’m always happy to help!), amplify your impact by engaging with others online/offline—and most importantly—tell YOUR story.
Are YOU ready? Start your application today at https://vexpert.vmware.com/apply before January 24th—and take that next big step toward joining this incredible community!
