IBM Champions are individuals, non-IBMer and recognized professionals in the IBM community. IBM has introduced the IBM Champion program back in 2008, initially only in the IBM Information Management Software division. The program describes itself as:
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The IBM Champion program recognizes innovative thought leaders in the technical community — and rewards these contributors by amplifying their voice and increasing their sphere of influence. An IBM Champion is an IT professional, business leader, developer, or educator who influences and mentors others to help them make best use of IBM software, solutions, and services.As of today, the program has elected 484 professionals across the globe.
IBM Champions are nominated by their peers. An IBM internal committee publishes the results once a year and the title is valid for one year. The champion needs to re-apply every year.
Lifetime IBM Champions
Besides from being elected as an IBM Champion on a yearly basis, IBM announced the entitlement for a lifetime achievement to the following personalities (as of February 2017)
2017 Champions
On December 14, 2016, the IBM Champions for ICS in 2017 were announced.
2016 Champions
On November 23, 2015, the IBM Champions for ICS in 2016 were announced.
2015 Champions
On December 3, 2014, the IBM Champions for ICS were announced.
2014 Champions
On June 26, 2014, the IBM Business Analytics Champion were announced.
On June 16, 2014, the IBM Information Management Software champions were announced: