InteropNet Volunteers
Yes, you can participate in the design and construction of the InteropNet. Here’s the deal:
Do you have mad network skills? Are you an uberGeek? Or are you just a hard worker who wants hands-on learning about the latest and greatest network gear, working alongside the engineers who make IT possible?
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then there is no reason why you shouldn't apply to be an Interop Team Member. Each year we pick a handful of volunteers from all fields and walks of life. These select few get the opportunity to work, live and learn the technology and tools that adorn the halls and networking closets of Interop. The process is simple. Create an account on our Volunteer Database, and follow the links to apply for the New York 2009 show.
"I volunteer at Interop because it gives me the opportunity to work with the latest and greatest avante garde technologies. InteropNet also enables me to work next to the tech sector's best and brightest engineers to design, build and manage the world's most intricate traveling network. As a learning experience, there is no better way to cultivate knowledge to develop network topology, deployment, and best practice solutions for any environment."
-Barry Cummings, Network Consultant, Windowpane Visuals, Inc
Apply today and let Interop help you get your geek on!
Volunteer Benefits
In addition to the educational benefits, the InteropNet Volunteer will receive the following:
- Hands-on network exposure/new product testing
- Team Lead instructed technology courses
- On-site signage (near the Event Network or Labs)
- Selected print media coverage
- Product development feedback
- Recognition in on-site signage
- Free Conference pass
- Meals during work hours
- Invitation to the Volunteer Appreciation dinner
- T-shirts and giveaways
- Hotel scholarship (for those that qualify)
- Opportunities to present to other volunteers
Volunteers from non-exhibiting organizations may apply for a Volunteer Hotel Scholarship. The InteropNet Volunteer Program will sponsor hotel accommodations for volunteers who qualify, based on availability, skills and needs.
Time Commitments
We request that all volunteers participate from the pre-show meeting to teardown. Dates may change depending on network needs. Each volunteer will be asked to provide an approximate time commitment before the event.
Hot Stage
Volunteers are also invited to help in this important stage of the Internet InteropNet construction. Tasks may include cable testing, ped installation, system configuration, testing and troubleshooting, etc.
TechWeb will provide lunch and dinner during Hot Stage and all meals during the event. No other volunteer expenses are covered. Team Lead expenses are covered per individual offer letter.
How to Become an InteropNet Volunteer
Volunteer Participation Procedures
Step One:
Submit an InteropNet Volunteer Profile Form. The Volunteer Profile is your opportunity to tell us about your particular area of expertise and any skills you wish to gain. Be honest, so we may ensure you will be assigned to the appropriate team. If you have participated as a volunteer for past InteropNets, please submit a profile anyway. Just indicate the dates of your participation and update any new skills you may have acquired. Eligible Volunteers from small businesses (less than 10 employees), nonprofit organizations, government agencies and universities universities are eligible to apply for a Volunteer Scholarship to cover your hotel stay during the event based on availability, skills, and needs. Please complete the Volunteer Hotel Scholarship field in the profile form.
Step Two:
Once all forms are received, you will be notified of your acceptance usually 5 weeks prior to the event. Please note: You may submit an InteropNet Volunteer Profile Form at any time, but you may not receive a response until closer to the event. Any forms submitted less than 3 weeks prior to the event may be put on a waiting list.
Step Three:
Once you are confirmed, we will contact you to confirm your IN and OUT date for the event.
Step Four:
The staff will then update all volunteers with on-site logistical information. Updates and new information will follow as needed.
InteropNet Volunteer Contact: .