Today marks the 9th annual System Administrator Appreciation Day!
The annual day of recognition reminds computer end users everywhere that their systems administrator makes it possible for them to work, play and connect with others online. System Admin Day, the last Friday in July, began in 2000 when Systems Administrator Ted Kekatos, an IT manager for a small start-up, decided it was time he and his colleagues received a bit of recognition for keeping systems running and workers productive.
Since then the high-tech holiday has spawned a number of ways to give credit where its due in the IT realm. For instance, the annual appreciation day in 2006 motivated a handful of user groups and vendors to develop a contest to name one person SysAdmin of the Year. And the process repeated in 2007 when Matt Timken, data communications specialist for Alaska Department of Public Safety in Anchorage, won the honor.
Who will take home the award for 2008? The third annual competition officially launches September 2, 2008 and closes October 26, 2008. This year contest officials are requesting potential applicants to submit a short 1 to 2 minute video about how the nominated Sysadmin saved the day for their organization or client. Winners will be announced November 9, 2008 at the LISA conference in San Diego. Nominate yourself or your favorite Sysadmin here.
