Christopher Benner
In this post, I would like to introduce you to one of our Expert Elite members, Mr. Mike Thomas. The Expert Elite program recognizes customers around the world who contribute to the Autodesk Community by sharing their product knowledge, best practices, and expertise. I have known Mike for many years and have had the privilege of sharing the stage with him at Autodesk University on a number of occasions as a co-speaker. Mike is very knowledgeable in both Inventor and Vault and loves to share what he has discovered with the Community. So, in his own words… Here’s Mike!
I started my first job, as an Application Specialist for an Autodesk Reseller straight out of school. The Autodesk Discussion forums quickly became part of my day-to-day activities as it allowed me to keep up with trending issues with AutoCAD and Mechanical Desktop (yes, I’m that old). It also quickly became for me a place to ask questions and help others with issues, a real peer-to-peer community (with a sprinkling of Autodesk) of open and quite often frank discussions. The Autodesk Community is, and has been for a long time, a very opening and welcoming group. We all want the same things… get ‘er done with as little issues as possible. So, although its no longer a day-to-day occurrence for me, I still poke my head in at least once a week.
After moving on from my reseller days I attended my first Autodesk University. What an eye opener. 10,000+ Autodesk loving geeks with a whole week to talk nothing but CAD, tech, and any other trending hot topics. I met so many great people, many that I am in regular contact with. Just having someone to talk to in a similar position is a real relief…. Its not just me with these issues! And let’s not forget about the content… the classes, lectures, hands-on, and other learning experiences. Amazes me sometimes how many tips, tricks, and different approaches I’ve picked up from the different industries. Whether it be manufacturing, architectural, civil, or M&E. Expanding your horizons is one of the hidden gems of AU.
I was very fortunate to be recognized as an “Expert” by Autodesk and welcomed into their Expert Elite program. What an honour to be part of an ever-growing group of elite, passionate, and strong users of Autodesk software. This group provides me the motivation to help others and to share the knowledge I’ve gained over the years. Between AU and my fellow Expert Elites it was the kick-in-the-butt I needed to return to blogging at Design & Motion. Lastly is the Autodesk Beta program. A loosely-behind-closed-door group run by an unbelievably dedicated group of Autodeskers trying to get the best out of their products. You throw in a group of strong users, and you start creating magic. Easily the best beta program running, and I’m involved in quite a few.
