Alteryx is a data analytics platform that stands out for its ability to simplify complex data processes. It integrates data preparation, blending, and analysis, making it a go-to solution for analysts and data professionals. Alteryx’s user-friendly interface allows users to perform advanced data analytics tasks without the need for extensive coding knowledge.
Becoming an Alteryx Ace can mean a major step in your career. It establishes you as a technical reference and a thought leader in the field of Analytics, not to mention a role model in the Alteryx community. Since becoming an ACE in 2019, my active participation in the Alteryx community has enriched my professional journey, and I’ve discovered the true importance of community engagement in this role.
In this blog, I’ll cover the ACE program, its prerequisites, the values the program seeks in its participants, and ultimately how to become one yourself.
What is an Alteryx Ace, and Why is it Important to Achieve Ace Status?
According to the Alteryx Community, “The ACE program is an aspirational council of the top users, evangelists, and thought leaders in the user/partner community for Alteryx. Members of the ACE program are passionate about the current and future capabilities of Alteryx and choose to commit their own time to make the Community better.”
An Alteryx Ace is an individual recognized for their exceptional skill and knowledge in Alteryx and Analytics. They engage deeply with the platform, with activities such as contributing through sharing knowledge, providing product feedback, and helping people in their local communities to excel.
Being an Alteryx Ace is a meaningful way to give back to the data analytics community. A part of the perks of it is realizing how you can effectively change people’s careers and why not their entire lives. The spirit of community I’ve experienced is transformative within Alteryx circles and the tech industry as a whole.
The ACE program offers direct engagement with Alteryx’s Product Management team, early access to new features, exclusive invitations to events like the Inspire conference, access to licenses for Alteryx products, and special swag.
A generous benefit from the program comes in part from professional growth. As an Alteryx ACE, Alteryx customers and partners often recognize you. Your work is more valuable and appreciated.
How to Become an Alteryx Ace
To start, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s no one-size-fits-all formula for becoming an Alteryx Ace. The journey to this status shouldn’t be driven by superficial goals. A genuine desire to help and uplift others in the Alteryx community is fundamental to being an Ace.
This status is earned through thoughtful leadership, consistent effort, and a commitment to continually enhancing your skills and knowledge in Alteryx. It’s a recognition that comes without the expectation of direct rewards. However, we can discuss prerequisites and activities that can help you get noticed.
Prerequisites for the Alteryx Ace Program
While the journey to becoming an Alteryx Ace is unique for each individual, there are specific prerequisites set by the ACE program. These prerequisites are designed to ensure that potential Aces have the necessary expertise and a strong commitment to the Alteryx community.
Here’s an overview of what’s required:
Status as a Customer or Partner: You need to be officially recognized as a customer or partner of Alteryx.
Active Community Membership: Participation in the Alteryx Community for at least one year is essential. This demonstrates your ongoing engagement and dedication.
Yearly Involvement in the Alteryx Community: Your contribution can take various forms, such as:
Actively asking and answering questions within the community.
Sharing insights or commenting on ideas.
Completing and building Weekly Challenges within the Alteryx community.
Alteryx Designer Advanced Certification
Participation in Alteryx for Good
Remember, being an Alteryx Ace goes beyond technical know-how. Your engagement score, calculated based on these activities, reflects your proficiency in Alteryx and your dedication to helping others grow in this field.
Technical Expertise
Alteryx Certifications
Achieving Alteryx certifications, particularly the Advanced one or above, is an important step. These certifications can prove your proficiency and deep understanding of Alteryx functionalities. They serve as a baseline for recognizing your technical skills in the community and project you as an expert.
Developing Custom Tools
Contribute to the Alteryx platform by developing custom tools. Engage in the DEV Space, showcasing technical aspects and innovative uses of Alteryx. This demonstrates your technical expertise, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Active Community Engagement
Participating in Forums
Regular involvement in the Alteryx community certainly does not go unnoticed.
Contributor
Answering questions and offering solutions highlights your expertise and commitment to supporting others. This consistent engagement is key to building a reputation as a knowledgeable and helpful member of the Alteryx community.
Creating Educational Content
Share your Alteryx knowledge through various formats like blog posts, videos, tips and tricks, and even webinars. This content creation not only aids in educating others but also establishes you as a thought leader in the Alteryx ecosystem.
For example, Marcus Montenegro, a fellow Alteryx ACE at phDdata, has recorded several Alteryx how-to videos for the Brazilian community in his YouTube channel BlackHill Ninja. It’s a way to give back to the community while showcasing your insights and expertise.
Innovation and Feedback
Be proactive in suggesting new features or improvements for Alteryx. Highlighting and addressing pain points contributes to the platform’s growth and shows your investment in its evolution. This involvement indicates that you’re not just a user but a contributor to Alteryx’s ongoing development.
Volunteer Work
Leverage your Alteryx skills for social good. Participate in initiatives like teaching Alteryx in non-profit organizations or using your data analytics skills to assist them. Involvement in ‘Alteryx for Good’ reflects your commitment to applying your expertise beyond professional settings. It’s a way to make a real impact in the world by using Alteryx.
Best Practices for Becoming an Alteryx Ace
Join the Alteryx Community
Being an active member of the Alteryx community is very important. Show your face in discussions, share insights, and offer support to fellow users. This consistent engagement helps in building a network and demonstrates your dedication to the community’s growth.
Participate in Alteryx Events and Competitions
Alteryx hosts various events and competitions, which are excellent opportunities to network, flex your skills, and learn from others. Engaging in these activities sharpens your abilities and increases your visibility in the community. One example is the Alteryx Grand Prix, a ‘race’ that awards the fastest workflow developer and is hosted annually at the Inspire Conference.
Regular Practice and Sharing
Consistently work on improving your Alteryx skills through regular practice. Share your projects and insights with the community. It helps others learn from your experiences and keeps you on top of the latest trends and techniques in Alteryx.
Get Involved in Alteryx User Groups
Participation in Alteryx User Groups is invaluable. These groups provide a platform for networking, learning, and sharing experiences with local or interest-specific communities. Consider taking a leadership role in these groups, which is a powerful way to contribute and make a significant impact. You can learn more about User Groups and how to get involved here.
Focus on Community Spirit and Ethical Respect
The goal of becoming an Alteryx Ace should not overshadow the spirit of community and ethical conduct. Your journey to becoming an Ace should be driven by a genuine desire to contribute to and grow with the Alteryx community. Prioritize ethical practices and respect in all your interactions and contributions.
Closing
As we’ve seen, the path to becoming an Alteryx Ace is about hard work, community, sharing knowledge, and continuous growth. It’s a commitment that goes beyond personal achievement to include helping others and shaping the field of data analytics.
Be aware that every step you take towards this goal, whether engaging in the community or mastering Alteryx tools, contributes to your evolution and the evolution of others around you.
At phData, we understand this journey well. With three Alteryx Aces on our team, we’ve seen how this role can elevate careers and communities. If you’re on this path or just curious about it, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to share our experiences, answer your questions, and support you in your journey.
Keep pushing forward, keep learning, and keep in mind that every contribution you make is a step towards becoming an Alteryx Ace and a leader in the data analytics world.
