Humans of Salesforce – Keir Bowden

Keir Bowden’s entry into the Salesforce ecosystem wasn’t exactly planned. In 2008, as a seasoned Java developer, Keir joined BrightGen to work on Java projects. However, the organization also offered Salesforce services, and Keir was encouraged to explore the platform and take the Developer Certification.

From that moment on, he was hooked. Salesforce simplified many of the time-consuming tasks he was used to dealing with, such as setting up databases and web servers. Instead, he could jump straight into the business logic, which sparked a newfound passion for the platform. “A lot has changed in the last 16 years,” Keir reflects, “but I still love that I can have an idea and have a working Proof of Concept (POC) in just a few hours.”

Mentorship and Community Impact

Throughout his career, Keir has taken great pride in watching those he mentored grow and thrive within the Salesforce ecosystem. One memorable moment occurred when he met a former attendee of an introductory Salesforce workshop. That individual, initially a complete newcomer to Salesforce, had gone on to become a successful senior developer at a global system integrator (GSI). “Hearing how I played a small part in their journey made my day,” Keir shares.

These moments remind Keir of the importance of nurturing new talent in the ecosystem and how even small acts of mentorship can create lasting impacts.

Why a Salesforce Career is So Rewarding

For Keir, the constant evolution of Salesforce is one of the most rewarding aspects of his career. With three releases a year—and even more for those working with Generative AI—there’s always something new to learn. However, it’s not just about the technology; the community plays a huge role in making a Salesforce career worthwhile.

“Salesforce isn’t just about the technology,” Keir says. “The community gives you a chance to make a real difference outside of your work and paying clients. That combination has made the last 16 years the most productive and rewarding of my career.”

Also Read – Salesforce Career Success Stories

Keir’s Top 3 Tips for Aspiring Salesforce Professionals

1. Embrace the Platform – While Apex may look like Java, it isn’t Java. You’ll have to adapt and embrace the platform’s strengths to get the best out of it.
2. Engage with the Community – Get involved in your local Salesforce community groups. You’ll not only gain valuable insights but also make lifelong friendships and strengthen your career.
3. Keep Learning – The Salesforce ecosystem is ever-growing. Staying updated on new features and capabilities will pay off in the long run. People who truly master the platform are always in demand.

Preparing for the Future of Salesforce

Looking ahead, Keir sees Salesforce doubling down on AI. The pace of change around AI is remarkable, and it’s clear that these innovations will play a significant role in the future of the platform.

For Keir, keeping up with these rapid developments is key, even if some tools and techniques may not last. “If I wait to see what wins out, I’ll be miles behind,” he says. His approach is to explore every new feature and stay ahead of the curve.

End Note

Keir Bowden’s journey from Java developer to Salesforce expert highlights the value of adaptability, community, and continuous learning. His story serves as a reminder that with the right mindset and dedication, anyone can build a successful and fulfilling career in the Salesforce ecosystem.

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