Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) has become a core part of how modern businesses manage remote work, data security, and IT flexibility. From cloud adoption to end-user computing (EUC) strategies, the VDI space is constantly evolving, and the best way to stay ahead is by learning directly from the experts shaping the industry.
In this blog, we’ve highlighted 15 of the most influential VDI experts and thought leaders you should follow in 2026 and beyond. These professionals share real-world insights on VDI, Desktop as a Service (DaaS), EUC, and cloud transformation, making them essential voices for IT leaders, MSPs, and enterprises navigating the digital workplace.
Whether you’re looking for technical expertise, industry forecasts, or hands-on tips for scaling VDI solutions, these experts bring a wealth of experience to the table.
1. David Klee
David Klee is a virtualization architect and SQL Server performance specialist with decades of experience in data center design, cloud migrations, and infrastructure security.
As the founder of SQLibrium and Heraflux Technologies, David has built a reputation for helping enterprises run mission-critical workloads on modern VDI and cloud environments. He has been recognized as both a Microsoft MVP and a VMware vExpert for his contributions to the IT community.
Beyond his consulting work, David frequently writes at davidklee.net and shares practical strategies for solving real-world performance challenges.
His specialties include VMware vSphere, Microsoft Hyper-V, Azure, AWS, and database-driven VDI environments. He is also a popular conference speaker and community mentor, making him one of the most trusted voices in VDI.
Connect with David – LinkedIn | Twitter
2. Claudio Rodrigues
Claudio Rodrigues has more than 25 years of experience in the hosted desktop and End-User Computing (EUC) industry, long before the term Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS) became mainstream.
He has founded multiple companies, including terminal-services.net and TSFactory, delivering affordable, easy-to-use tools that shaped the DaaS market. Claudio has also guided product strategy for global enterprises, leading to several large OEM partnerships and acquisitions.
Widely recognized as both a practitioner and educator, Claudio is the author of DaaS – The Complete Guide and RDS – The Complete Guide, both highly rated resources for IT professionals. He has also spoken at leading industry events like BriForum and E2EVC. Today, Claudio continues to influence the EUC and VDI community by shaping future strategies at Goldman Sachs.
Connect with Claudio – LinkedIn
3. Tom Hickling
Tom Hickling plays a central role at Microsoft as Senior Program Manager for Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) and Windows 365.
His work directly impacts how enterprises deploy and manage cloud-based VDI solutions at scale. Through LinkedIn, Tom regularly shares insights on Microsoft’s roadmap, new features, and how businesses can make the most of cloud-hosted desktops.
For IT teams navigating Microsoft’s VDI ecosystem, Tom’s updates offer clarity and direction. His contributions help organizations adopt cloud desktops with confidence, making him one of the most influential voices in the Azure VDI space.
Connect with Tom – LinkedIn
4. William Lam
William Lam is well known in the VMware community for his deep expertise in automation, scripting, and virtualization technologies.
Through his blog and LinkedIn, William shares technical walkthroughs, product deep-dives, and tips that IT professionals rely on to optimize their VDI deployments.
With a background in both architecture and hands-on problem solving, William has become a go-to resource for VMware and VDI practitioners worldwide.
His clear documentation and willingness to share knowledge make him a trusted authority in the virtualization ecosystem.
Connect with William – LinkedIn
5. J. Tyler Rohrer
J. Tyler Rohrer is a serial entrepreneur and co-founder of Liquidware, a leader in digital workspace management solutions.
Throughout his career, Tyler has built and sold multiple companies, bringing innovative approaches to end-user computing, cybersecurity, and enterprise software.
Known for his passion for reshaping how organizations handle digital risk, Tyler blends strategic vision with deep industry experience.
His perspectives are especially valuable for IT leaders seeking to balance performance, security, and scalability in modern VDI environments.
Connect with Tyler – LinkedIn
6. Kevin Goodman
Kevin Goodman has left a lasting mark on the virtualization world. He co-founded RTO Software, acquired by VMware in 2010, and FSLogix, acquired by Microsoft in 2018, both of which became integral to VDI performance and management.
After serving as Director of Product Management at AWS, Kevin retired from full-time work in 2024 but continues to mentor startups and guide CEOs in the VDI and cloud computing space.
His career as a “category creator” has shaped how enterprises think about end-user computing, making him one of the most impactful figures in the VDI industry.
Connect with Kevin – LinkedIn
7. Brian Madden
Brian Madden has been one of the most recognized names in VDI for more than two decades. As a technologist and storyteller, he has delivered over 1,000 talks worldwide and authored six books and thousands of technical articles.
He also founded BriForum, a vendor-neutral EUC conference that became a cornerstone for the community.
Today, Brian leads strategic vision at Citrix, focusing on AI, secure digital workspaces, and the future of work.
His ability to connect complex technologies with real-world workflows makes him an essential voice for IT leaders preparing for what’s next in VDI.
Connect with Brian – LinkedIn
8. Gabe Knuth
Gabe Knuth has dedicated his career to making End-User Computing (EUC) and VDI accessible to IT professionals at every level.
Known for his clear communication style, Gabe translates complex technical concepts into practical insights that administrators can immediately apply.
As an analyst, writer, and long-time EUC community member, he has built trust by focusing on real-world experiences and challenges. Following Gabe means gaining a perspective that balances technology with the human side of IT.
Connect with Gabe – LinkedIn
9. David Marshall
David Marshall is a veteran in the virtualization and cloud computing space, with more than 20 years of experience shaping conversations around modern data centers.
He has authored four books and written for leading publications including InfoWorld, TechTarget, and Network World.
As the founder and editor of VMblog.com and CloudCow.com, David has built platforms that reach hundreds of thousands of IT professionals.
His career also includes launching and growing multiple software startups, five of which were successfully acquired. His deep experience makes him a guiding voice in the VDI ecosystem.
Connect with David – LinkedIn
10. Christiaan Brinkhoff
Christiaan Brinkhoff is one of the most visible figures in the world of cloud desktops and virtualization. At Microsoft, he has been instrumental in shaping Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop, contributing to innovations like Windows 365 Boot, Switch, and the Windows App.
Christiaan is the author of several books, including Mastering Windows 365 and Mastering Microsoft Intune.
With eight patents and numerous community awards, he is both a technical leader and an active contributor to the global EUC community.
He also co-leads the #DAASLIKEAPRO community survey and hosts Microsoft’s Windows in the Cloud podcast.
Connect with Christiaan – LinkedIn
11. Carl Webster
Carl Webster, known simply as “Webster” in the EUC community, has spent decades creating technical documentation and resources that IT professionals around the world depend on.
While he retired from public service to the EUC community in 2023, his work continues to live on through CarlWebster.com, now managed by fellow expert Neil Spellings.
Even in retirement, Carl contributes by producing technical documentation at Flexxible and mentoring the next generation of IT professionals. His legacy in the VDI space is one of generosity, clarity, and mentorship.
Connect with Carl – LinkedIn
12. Johan van Amersfoort
Johan van Amersfoort is Chief Evangelist and AI Lead at ITQ, where he focuses on digital workspaces, cloud-native technologies, and AI-driven innovation.
He is also a well-known community leader, author of the VDI Design Guide, and podcast host.
Johan frequently speaks at major tech events, including VMware Explore, NVIDIA GTC, and HashiConf, where he showcases how VDI, AI, and cloud technologies intersect.
Through storytelling, live demonstrations, and community involvement, Johan continues to shape conversations in the VDI and EUC space.
Connect with Johan – LinkedIn
13. Werner Vogels
Werner Vogels is the CTO of Amazon and one of the most influential figures in cloud computing. His leadership at AWS has shaped the foundation of modern cloud infrastructure, including services that power VDI and DaaS deployments across industries.
While Werner’s expertise goes beyond VDI, his insights into distributed systems, large-scale cloud adoption, and digital workplace evolution make him highly relevant to enterprises exploring or running virtual desktops.
He frequently shares thought leadership on building resilient and scalable cloud solutions, making his content valuable for IT leaders worldwide.
Connect with Werner – LinkedIn
14. David Linthicum
David Linthicum is recognized globally as one of the top cloud strategy leaders. Currently serving as Chief Cloud Strategy Officer at Deloitte, he has written over 17 best-selling books and thousands of articles on enterprise IT, digital transformation, and cloud adoption.
He has also created more than 70 LinkedIn courses highlighting the practical applications and strategic value of AI in business.
Although his primary expertise lies in cloud strategy, his perspectives align closely with VDI and DaaS trends. On LinkedIn, David is highly active, sharing practical insights on cloud modernization, security, and scalability.
Connect with David – LinkedIn
15. Thomas Maurer
Thomas Maurer is a Principal Program Manager and Chief Evangelist for Azure Hybrid at Microsoft, bringing over 15 years of experience in cloud and datacenter technologies. As part of Microsoft’s Azure engineering team (Cloud + AI), he works closely with communities and enterprises worldwide to simplify the adoption of Azure Adaptive Cloud, including hybrid, multicloud, and edge solutions.
A former Microsoft MVP, Thomas is recognized for his deep expertise in virtualization, hybrid cloud, and Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD). Through his blogs, public speaking, demos, and community engagement, he consistently provides practical guidance for IT leaders modernizing their infrastructure with cloud-powered VDI and digital workplace solutions.
Connect with Werner – LinkedIn
Trusted by enterprises for over 15 years, Ace Cloud Hosting delivers secure and flexible VDI that adapts to your business needs.
Disclaimer: The experts mentioned here are independent professionals. Their inclusion in this blog does not imply endorsement of, or association with, Ace Cloud Hosting.
Conclusion
These 15 experts represent the leading voices in Virtual Desktop Infrastructure and End-User Computing. By following them, you gain access to decades of experience, unique insights, and community-driven knowledge.
Whether you’re troubleshooting performance issues, planning a cloud VDI migration, or exploring the future of AI in digital workspaces, these experts will help you stay ahead.
With over 15 years of expertise and a trusted Citrix partnership, Ace Cloud Hosting delivers a secure, scalable Desktop as a Service solution. For more VDI insights, explore the Ace Cloud Hosting Blog or start your free 7-day trial today.
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