Interviewing 2X AEM Champion Tad Reeves on the Adobe Champion Program
What is the Adobe AEM Champion program, and what does it mean to be an AEM Champion? Are there benefits? Requirements? For an Adobe Experience Manager professional looking to uplevel their career, what are some strategies that might wind you, too, up as an AEM Champion?
After just being named as an AEM Champion for the second year in a row, Principal Architect Tad Reeves sat down with Arbory Digital's Justin Ranly to discuss this very topic, to help those out there who might want in as an AEM Champion to ready their applications for next year.
Also available on Apple Podcasts and as an audio or video podcast on Spotify.
Overview of the Adobe Champion Program
The Adobe Champion Program acknowledges individuals who excel in using and promoting Adobe’s Experience Cloud products, including Adobe Analytics, Adobe Commerce, Adobe Experience Platform, Workfront, and Adobe Experience Manager (AEM). Initially focused on Marketo, the program has expanded to encompass a broader range of solutions. Its purpose is to recognize those who advocate for these tools, support their effective use, and contribute to the development of future professionals in the digital experience field.
Regarding the Champions Selection Process
The Adobe Champion Program selects approximately 40 individuals annually from a global pool of applicants, making the process highly competitive. Candidates are evaluated based on their technical expertise, contributions to the Adobe ecosystem, and ability to mentor others. The rigorous standards ensure that only those with significant experience and impact are chosen.
Benefits of the Adobe Champion Program
Getting named to the Adobe Champion Program offers several advantages, discussed in the podcast:
Networking Opportunities
Champions connect with a diverse group of professionals across industries, enabling knowledge sharing and collaboration. This network provides access to varied expertise and perspectives, fostering professional growth. The AEM Champions Slack in itself is a HUGE career cheat code.
The program fosters a collaborative environment where champions support one another, share solutions, and address challenges collectively. This sense of community enhances professional development.
Access to Adobe Teams
Champions have direct communication with Adobe’s engineers and product teams, allowing them to provide feedback and gain insights into product development. This relationship supports both individual contributions and Adobe’s innovation efforts.
Guidance for Aspiring Adobe Champions
Mr. Reeves offers the following recommendations for professionals seeking to become Adobe Champions:
- Engage with Current Champions: Connect with program members through platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights and guidance.
- Pursue Continuous Learning: Stay informed about Adobe’s tools and actively seek opportunities to expand technical knowledge.
- Contribute to the Community: Share expertise, participate in discussions, and support others to build a strong reputation within the Adobe ecosystem.
Role at Industry Events / Adobe Summit
Adobe Champions play an active role at events such as the Adobe Summit, where they engage with attendees, answer technical questions, and provide guidance on Adobe products. These interactions offer opportunities to address real-world challenges and deepen their understanding of user needs.
Conclusion
The Adobe Champion Program is a prestigious initiative that recognizes expertise and fosters collaboration within the Adobe ecosystem. Tad Reeves’ experience underscores the program’s value in providing networking opportunities, access to Adobe resources, and a platform for professional growth. For those aspiring to join, engaging with the community and contributing to the field are essential steps toward success. The program offers a structured pathway for professionals to enhance their skills and make a meaningful impact in digital experience management.
Podcast Speakers
Tad Reeves
Principal Architect at Arbory Digital
Tad has been working with Adobe products since 2010 and has extensive experience in website infrastructure. Starting in 1996, he has worn nearly every hat in website delivery from solution architecture to product management, and has over two decades of experience. He loves that Arbory gives him the opportunity to provide honest and effective solutions, even if it means challenging prevailing sales perspectives. When Tad isn’t working, he enjoys mountain biking and exploring nature with his wife & 3 kids.
Justin Ranly
Solution Consultant
Justin has sixteen years of experience in the nursing field, with the last ten years dedicated to procedural nursing and radiology. However, he was ready for a new challenge and wanted to become more involved in technology. After applying his skills in a software development bootcamp, he joined the Arbory team. There, he enjoys being surrounded by experts in the field and seeing the direct results of his impact. When Justin isn’t working, he enjoys traveling, attending live shows, and spending time with his family and friends.
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