Before jumping into the WordPress Community, I spent 13 years managing high performing teams of electronic technicians, while serving in the United States Marine Corps. During that time I witnessed a lot of technological change, and know first hand the importance of learning new skills.

Recently, I fell in love with all things WordPress. Over the past two years I have spent an unhealthy amount of time, learning everything there is to know about WordPress. During this time, I have worked with a number of clients who have picked WordPress for their primary website, and I find it exciting, that more and more Enterprise clients are using the platform too. Helping clients, solve tough problems, with custom tailored solutions built on WordPress, is what makes me excited to start each and every day.

In September of 2014 I joined a WordPress Development Agency called 10up. At 10up I am currently serving as a Project Manger. I spend my days coordinating the efforts on a number of WordPress projects, and my nights improving my skills as a WordPress developer.

Why Do You Use WordPress?
I like WordPress for its core tenant; to democratize web publishing. I think it is really cool when you can build a highly customizable site, with well structured content, that is simple for end users to modify.

When and How Did You Start Using WordPress?
I was honestly just looking for a new career, and given my technical background, the web offered the most promise. It didn’t take long before I became enamored with the WordPress Platform. When I first started selling WordPress solutions, I would outsource some of the heavy development. However, as time went on, I slowly started doing more and more of the development myself. That allowed me to grow as a developer, while still providing a quality product to the client.

What Tips or Resources would you recommend to a new WordPress User?
As far as web resource I tell people to visit WP Beginner and WordPress.tv. However the best thing a new user could do is attend their local WordPress meetup. You will find everything you need once you join the WordPress Community.

What advice would you give someone who’s building a business around WordPress design or development?
Don’t be afraid to offer your opinion to clients. Oftentimes they have a very limited understanding of what WordPress can do, and it can be easy to just say yes and build something that fills a need, but could have been better. Unless you provide that knowledge, you are simply a keypuncher, and you will never be able to charge more for your services. Anybody can build a website. It is your knowledge that separates you from the pack.

How do you stay informed about WordPress (news, tips, etc)?
I follow a lot of really cool WordPress developers and users on Twitter, but one of my favorite sites to check out is managewp.org. This is a community driven site where people share trending articles about WordPress. I go there everyday.

What’s a cool WordPress based site you’ve seen recently?
I would just point to the amazing list of clients using WordPress VIP. I think it is awesome to see so many large publications choosing WordPress as their platform of choice. Having an opportunity to work with many of the clients on that list, I am always amazed at far we’re pushing the limits of what WordPress can do.

What do you like most about WordCamps?
Honestly I just enjoy meeting new people.

Where can we find you online?
Twitter: @MrBobbyBryant