A Written Interview with Eric Brown, Jr., Technical Envisioning Specialist for Microsoft Corporation and 2009 JDG graduate of Lake Forest High School

As a technical envisioning specialist, Eric is responsible for leading in the development and delivery of compelling experiences for enterprise customers. These experiences include solution demonstrations, workshops, seminars, and others across the broad portfolio of Microsoft technologies.

Joining Microsoft in 2012, he quickly became known for sharing his passion for technology with federal customers as a productivity solutions specialist. Most recently, Mr. Brown worked as a datacenter solutions specialist. Embracing the core values of integrity, innovation, and growth, he helps partners and customers shift to cloud services, including Office 365, Windows Intune, CRM Online, Azure, and hybrid cloud.

Originally from Felton, Delaware, Mr. Brown lives in northern Virginia. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from Delaware State University. When he isn’t tinkering with the latest and greatest technology, you can find him volunteering or mentoring the next generation of leaders. Mr. Brown ultimately owns the dream of being a spark that inspires others to dream, learn, and do more.

JDG was delighted when Eric decided to participate in a written interview about his experiences with the JDG program.  Below are the questions asked and his responses. 

JDG: How did JDG prepare you for the job market?

Eric: JDG gave me an environment where I could develop and cultivate core skills and business acumen. Ultimately, the experience helped build my self-confidence and sparked a desire in me to lead.

JDG: What do you think are some of the most important experiences students have while in JDG that help prepare them for the workforce and/or college/training programs?

Eric: Experiences with goal setting, resume writing, strengths discovery, and career options help prepare students for paths after high school.

JDG: Did you take part in any field trips, guest speaker opportunities, student leadership events, etc.?  If so, how did it help develop your job-attainment and retention skills and/or your success as a college student?

Eric: I did take part in field trips and had guest speaker opportunities. However, for me it was the hands-on scenario exercises that helped develop my job-attainment and retention skills.  I believe practice and constructive criticism allowed me to grow personally and professionally.

JDG: What do you think was the most important part of the JDG curriculum in reference to starting a successful career?

Eric: I would have to say belief is the most important part of the JDG curriculum in reference to starting a successful career. Instructor belief can open one’s heart and mind to new possibilities. Belief in self can spark a desire to stretch, learn new concepts, and apply them to life. Belief in what you’re doing is a great foundation to any successful career.

JDG: What was your favorite part of JDG, and how does it relate to your success in the job market and/or college?

Eric: My favorite part of JDG was the people. JDG was a community for personal/career development. My Instructor, Mrs. Weldon, and my peers made my experience. How effective can you be in this world if you don’t respect others or work well with group dynamics? JDG taught me how to be present and listen to others even if I don’t agree. Conflict resolution and problem solving does not take place in isolation. I have been successful in college, the workplace, community etc. because I learned to work well in groups and respect diversity of thought.

JDG: How will you continue to apply the skills you learned in JDG as you continue with your career/educational goals?

Eric: I will apply lessons learned until they become effective habits. It takes daily application, and intentional practice. Goal setting/ execution, and public speaking/ positive persuasion are skills I want to dedicate time to master.

JDG: What are your long-term career goals, and how can your JDG experience help you attain them?

Eric: A long-term career goal for me is to be a global brand/ thought leader. I would like to create programs, services and resources that enable people to do more and achieve more. I ultimately want to have a legacy of caring and building communities. I would like to have my words and actions inspire a generation of bold leaders. JDG gave me the foundational tools to achieve my dreams. Belief in myself and abilities, goal planning skills, business acumen, and a desire to lead. I am grateful for the program, and I’m excited to witness the many lives it will reach.