Sign In

Greg Larkin

Senior Principal Field Solutions Developer @ Puppet

Professional Background

Greg Larkin is an accomplished software developer and technologist with an impressive career spanning over three decades, beginning in the late 1980s. As a pioneer in the software development landscape, he has played a vital role in shaping technology practices by working with numerous companies, particularly during the rise of the Internet in the mid-1990s. In 1996, Greg transitioned into a self-employed role as a software development consultant. He collaborated with a variety of clients on back-end and database application projects, gaining insights into the unique challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses.

A key moment in Greg's career came from his experience working with geographically-distributed teams of independent consultants. His foundation in strong software development processes inspired him to enhance collaboration among these teams by implementing source code control repositories. This innovative approach culminated in the creation of SourceHosting.net, which became the first commercial Internet-based hosted source code repository service. Recognizing the needs of small and medium-sized companies, Greg focused on providing a solution that would enable clients to concentrate on their primary goal: launching their products without the added burden of managing complex infrastructure.

In late 2012, Greg encountered the potential of configuration management software, "Puppet," through a colleague. His eagerness to embrace new technologies led him to quickly learn the software's capabilities and understand its role in automating and streamlining tasks, which significantly aided in the management of services like SourceHosting.net. By 2013, Greg immersed himself in the Puppet community, attended PuppetConf '13, and achieved a Puppet Certified Professional designation, solidifying his expertise in the field.

Greg's journey with Puppet transitioned from community engagement to an integral position as a Professional Services Engineer (PSE). In this role, he focused on implementing Puppet Enterprise for clients, while also providing training to both new and experienced users. His involvement exposed him to a vast array of client environments and technologies, enriching his proficiency and understanding.

Over the years at Puppet, Greg evolved into roles that prioritized customer education and the development of training platforms. His extensive experience and dedication to using Puppet have allowed him to acquire comprehensive product knowledge, which he leverages to create innovative solutions tailored for customers and prospects alike.

Education and Achievements

Greg Larkin's educational credentials include a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Clarkson University, where he developed a solid technical foundation that has supported his successful career in software development. Earlier in life, he received his education at Nashua High School, setting the stage for his future endeavors in technology and engineering.

In recognition of his expertise and accomplishments, Greg has been associated with several prestigious organizations and projects throughout his career, including:

  • Principal Field Solutions Developer at Puppet
  • Formerly Senior Training Solutions Engineer at Puppet
  • Formerly Professional Services Engineer at Puppet
  • Formerly Ports Tree Committer at The FreeBSD Project
  • Formerly Senior Architect / Joint Product Development at Chaperon, LLC
  • Formerly Managing Member at SourceHosting.net, LLC
  • Formerly Software Consultant at Monster Board
  • Formerly Principal Consultant at Entropy Software
  • Formerly ActiveBook Software Engineer at Vertigo Development Group
  • Formerly Senior Software Engineer at Nabnasset Corporation
  • Formerly Senior Software Engineer at Viewlogic Systems

These roles demonstrate Greg's adaptability and wide-ranging expertise throughout his career, showcasing his ability to contribute to meaningful projects and initiatives in various capacities. His journey reflects a commitment to making technology accessible and effective for businesses of all sizes.

Achievements

Greg Larkin has a remarkable record of achievements within the technology and software development industries. His highlight accomplishments include:

  • Founder of SourceHosting.net: Greg's creation of the first commercial Internet-based hosted source code repository service highlighted his forward-thinking approach to software development and collaboration, impacting countless businesses seeking streamlined services during the nascent years of the Internet.
  • Puppet Certified Professional: Achieving certification from Puppet attests to Greg's in-depth understanding of their products and his capability to effectively utilize them in various operational environments.
  • Expertise in System Configuration Management: Greg's extensive knowledge and experience in system configuration management through Puppet are invaluable assets, enabling him to help clients improve their efficiency and reduce operational burdens.
  • Training and Development: Through his various roles at Puppet and elsewhere, Greg has dedicated himself to training and educating new users, ensuring that they are well-equipped to harness the power of technology in their businesses.

Overall, Greg Larkin's career trajectory embodies a profound commitment to excellence and innovation in the software development field. His journey reflects not only technical proficiency but also a passion for empowering businesses with the tools necessary to achieve their goals. As a leading figure in the Puppet community and a respected consultant, Greg continues to leave a significant mark on the industry he loves.

Related Questions

How did Greg Larkin's early experiences as a software developer shape his career trajectory towards becoming a Principal Field Solutions Developer at Puppet?
What innovative strategies did Greg Larkin implement at SourceHosting.net to assist small and medium-sized businesses in their product launches?
In what ways did Greg Larkin's involvement with the Puppet community influence his professional development and opportunities within the field of software development?
How has Greg Larkin utilized his education in Electrical Engineering to influence his work as a software developer and consultant?
What are some of the most memorable challenges that Greg Larkin faced while working to implement Puppet Enterprise for clients, and how did he overcome them?
Greg Larkin
Add to my network

Location

Rocklin, California, United States