If you’ve ever engaged with the content on the Microsoft Learn platform, it's highly likely that the material you used was written or co-authored by dedicated contributors. These contributors, often volunteers, generously offer their time and expertise to fill knowledge gaps within our portfolio and ensure the content remains up to date.
In this Contributor Stories interview series, we aim to acquaint ourselves with some of these valuable contributors. Through these conversations, we seek to understand their motivations for sharing their knowledge and gain insights into their experiences.
We are excited to have Sean Killeen here with us today. Originally from the Philadelphia area, Sean has 15+ years of experience solving problems as a leader and developer for commercial, non-profit, and federal clients. He currently works remotely from his home in Arlington, VA, as the VP of Innovation & Products at SCT Software. He was also awarded the Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP). Aside from loving his work way too much, there's a good chance he's enjoying being a Dad (and husband!), sipping great beer, exploring the Arlington area, or singing somewhere.
Sean was chosen for this month’s Contributor Stories article because of his strong dedication to sharing knowledge with others. He is a frequent and valued contributor to the Microsoft Learn platform.
Meet Sean
Sherry: Welcome, Sean! Congratulations on being a top Microsoft contributor and being highlighted in this month’s Contributor Stories article! I know our listeners are eager to hear about your contributions and why you started contributing to Microsoft in the first place. Before we get into all that, can you first tell us about your background and experience?
Sean: Thanks, Sherry. I appreciate it. I’m incredibly honored to have been nominated for the Contributor Stories program.
Sherry: That’s fantastic to hear. So, what got you started in the world of computers and programming?
Sean: My background in computers and programming started at an early age. I was lucky enough that my Dad was one of the early generation of programmers. I benefited both from his knowledge as a self-taught programmer and his infinite patience with my many questions. (Thanks, Dad!)
Sherry: It’s great to have such early inspiration. How did you start developing your skills?
Sean: I found myself building and experimenting with VB5 applications and then ASP and ASP.NET. I soaked up everything I could from MSDN magazine, Wrox books, and the early bloggers. In 8th grade, I got a job working for Bristol Township School District while a student. I cleaned and repaired computers, learned about networking and administration, and worked on early versions of their website.
Sherry: That’s impressive! You were already doing significant work at a young age. What was your next step after high school?
Sean: One of my earliest consulting gigs was as a subcontractor for someone doing ASP work for Oxford University when I was still in high school. In undergrad, I wanted to embrace areas of study beyond technology, which led me to major in American Studies at Muhlenberg College. I credit the variety and interdisciplinary nature of my liberal arts education for the great deal of success I've had since.
Sherry: How did your career progress after college?
Sean: I graduated in 2009, during a tough job market, but I was fortunate to get an opportunity with Dakota Consulting, which kickstarted my career. I moved to Washington, DC, to work as an IT administrator and later transitioned to consulting, which opened doors to roles at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab and KCIC, where I developed as a leader.
Afterward, I joined CoStar Group, where I gained experience in a larger organization and witnessed the launch of Apartments.com. My career took a significant leap at Excella Consulting, where I led a major legacy modernization effort, became a conference speaker, and contributed to open-source software. I spent about six years there, eventually becoming a Principal Technical Fellow. Currently, I’m the VP of Innovation & Products at SCT Software, where I lead a talented team bringing new products to market with cutting-edge technologies.
Sherry: That’s quite a journey, Sean. Your career path is both inspiring and diverse. It’s clear that you’ve had a broad range of experiences that have shaped you into the professional you are today. Can you tell us more about your involvement in community-driven initiatives and open-source contributions? How has that influenced your career?
Sean: Absolutely. I've always found joy in contributing to the technical community, largely because I benefited so much from others who shared their knowledge freely. That inspiration drove me to give back through blogging, contributing to open-source projects, and participating in community events. I’ve hosted the .NET DC User Group, spoken at conferences, and worked on various OSS projects. One of my proudest moments was helping revamp the documentation for the NUnit project, which eventually led to my role as the documentation lead and a core team member. Contributing to OSS is more than just giving back; it's about being part of something bigger, a community where we all help each other grow.
Sherry: It’s wonderful to hear how much you value community and collaboration. Speaking of which, can you tell us about the Microsoft MVP initiative that led you to find those inconsistencies in SQL Server content? How did that experience shape your involvement in the MVP community?
Sean: Interestingly, I didn’t set out to contribute to an “MVP initiative” per se. It started with a simple request from Randolph West in the MVP mailing list, asking if anyone had noticed typos in SQL Server error messages. That sparked an idea for me. In 2022, I had worked on a Hacktoberfest project that automated spell-checking for documentation. With the SQL Server docs being open source, I was able to use tools like cSpell to identify inconsistencies across the documentation. This wasn’t just about finding errors; it was about using the skills and tools I had to make a meaningful contribution. My journey as an MVP has been somewhat unique, given that I was awarded just before my son was born and during the pandemic. While I’ve had to balance personal responsibilities, I remain committed to contributing in ways that benefit the broader developer community.
Sherry: Your dedication to the community is evident. What inspired you to start contributing to platforms like Microsoft Learn and the Microsoft Tech Community? What keeps you motivated to continue?
Sean: The idea of open documentation and learning resources is something I’m passionate about. Early in my career, I was deeply inspired by those who shared their knowledge freely, and that motivated me to do the same. The ability to make a change, however small, that can benefit others is incredibly fulfilling. Whether it’s supporting OSS projects, blogging, or answering questions in the community, I’m driven by the idea that we’re all in this together. Recently, someone thanked me for a blog post I wrote nine years ago. That kind of impact, where something I did years ago continues to help others, is what keeps me going.
Sherry: It’s clear that your contributions have had a lasting impact. How has contributing to the Microsoft Learn platform specifically helped advance your career or personal growth?
Sean: I see my contributions more as giving back to the community rather than to Microsoft directly. But there’s no doubt that putting myself out there and looking for ways to add value has opened up numerous opportunities. My involvement with the NUnit project is a perfect example. I started by helping to move the documentation to a more cohesive format, which led to learning new skills, gaining visibility, and ultimately being invited to join the core team. This kind of journey, where a willingness to help and a readiness to learn leads to personal and professional growth, is something I’ve experienced repeatedly in the OSS community.
Sherry: That’s such a powerful example of how contributing can lead to unexpected opportunities. Do you have any advice for those looking to start contributing to open-source content?
Sean: Absolutely. First, don’t let imposter syndrome stop you. There’s always a need in the community, and chances are, you already have the skills to make a big impact. Start with tools and projects you’re familiar with or admire, and look for areas where you can add value. Remember, contributing to OSS is about building relationships, so approach it with a mindset of collaboration and respect. And don’t be afraid to try different types of contributions until you find what gives you positive energy. The community is vast, and there’s always a place where your contributions will be valued.
Sherry: That’s excellent advice, Sean. Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing in your free time? Any hobbies or activities that help you unwind?
Sean: Lately, work has been consuming a lot of my time as we’re launching multiple cloud-based products, but my favorite role right now is being a Dad to my son, Eamon. He’s four, and watching him grow is a constant source of joy and fun. I also love singing and musical theatre—I’ll sing at any opportunity. Over the last few years, I’ve also found a lot of peace in exploring the outdoors and taking long walks. Poetry is another passion of mine, and I often find inspiration in the everyday moments of life.
Sherry: It sounds like you have a rich and fulfilling life both professionally and personally. Is there anything else you’d like to share about your journey or contributions?
Sean: I’d like to acknowledge the incredible support I receive from my wife. She’s the one who makes it possible for me to contribute and work as I do. Her daily efforts in caring for our child and family enable me to show up fully in my professional and community roles. I’m incredibly grateful to her and partners everywhere who support us in pursuing our passions.
Sherry: Thank you, Sean, for sharing your story with us. Your journey is truly inspiring,
Keep up with Sean:
- Personal Website: https://seankilleen.com/
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/SeanKilleen
- X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/sjkilleen
- Mastodon: https://mastodon.social/@sjkilleen
- Credly profile: https://www.credly.com/users/sean-killeen.ad6d9f52
To learn more about:
- Contributing to Microsoft Learn, visit Microsoft Learn Contributor Home.
- To learn more about the new Community Content site on Microsoft Learn, including how to join, visit Microsoft Learn Community Content.
- Contribute to the Microsoft Learn Q&A by joining the Microsoft Community Champions program.