I've been a designer and developer for a long time. But until 4 or 5 years ago I only consumed help from others, never offered. And up until 2 years ago I only read blogs, or commented on them, never wrote them. The older (wiser?) that I get, the more I realize that everyone has something to offer others. In my case, it's the unique skills and abilities that I've fostered over the past 12 years.
Two years ago I made a decision that I would start actively giving back to the community that had contributed to much to my growth and skillset. I set four personal and professional goals for myself.
- Start blogging
- Write, and release, open source projects
- Apply for, and be accepted to speak at at least one conference
- Become an Adobe Community Professional
I've clearly begun blogging, and while this site isn't the most highly trafficed tech blog on the internet, I have solid content, I write about things that interest me, and I've helped others further their skills. I have numerous ColdFusion, jQuery, and AIR projects that I have released. I've been fortunate enough to have almost 10 conference speaking engagements under my belt in the past two years, along with several User Group engagements. The only thing I haven't accomplished yet is to become a Community Professional.
So if you're an existing Community Professional, Adobe Evangelist, or Adobe Team Member, please consider nominating me for an AIR, ColdFusion, or RIA (does this exist) position. I won't let you down!
If this article was interesting, or helpful, or even wrong, please consider leaving a comment, or buying something from my wishlist. It's appreciated!
Andy, the fact that you're not already is surprising. If I was one, I'd gladly vouch for you. :)
Todd Rafferty - November 18, 2010 12:33 pm
Todd - the fact that YOU aren't one already is baffling! But I agree... Wish I could help, Andy - but alas - I am not one either.
Sid Wing - November 18, 2010 01:19 pm
A lot of the team was dumped at the end of last year without any notice from Adobe. From what I had heard from others, the criteria seems to have shifted towards those who blog frequently and have spoken at recent conferences. CFObjective is coming up and they may need speakers. :)
Michael Dinowitz - November 19, 2010 01:02 am
Michael, I filled out the application form last night and you're exactly right. They're placing heavy emphasis on social networking, blogging, and speaking. Luckily I'm involved in all three of t hose. And yes, I definitely plan on putting in a topic for cf.Objective() this year. :)
andy matthews - November 19, 2010 05:35 am