Everyone may not be aware of the services PLUG offers its membership. PLUG does not charge any dues, it is a 100% volunteer operated (dis)organization. We collectively happen to provide the following available to all members.

Mailing Lists

PLUG maintains two lists:

PLUG - This list is 100% unmoderated and can be high traffic. Over 450 people are subscribed. It is a singularly unique platform to discuss, with an audience of your peers, what matters to you. On topic items include: everything that is not considered offensive to members.

PLUG-Announce - This is a moderated list for meeting announcements only.

Web Site

Features include:
Member directory with statistics.
Local company index with statistics.
Local Linux contractors.
Polls, like this one regarding meetings.

LinkedIn Group

There are over 150 participants on the PLUG LinkedIn group. We generally do not permit recruiters to join this group (you won't get spam'd). To join, follow here.

IRC

This isn't limited to PLUG. It covers the entire state. Come talk now.

Jabber

jabber.plug.org - For the latest status please ask Ryan Simpkins

Meetings

Meeting details are posted to both mailing lists and plug.org. It is easier than ever to stay informed. If you would like to present, please contact Ryan.

Employment Help

The recent financial crisis reminded us how important being plugged-in to a network of professionals can be. You never know when you could find yourself jobless. Being an active participant in PLUG is a great way to reduce your risk. Don't be shy about promoting yourself on the PLUG list. We permit job postings, and we also permit seeker postings. Those who regularly participate often find new jobs within days of a "seeker" posting. Remember the list reaches over 450 Linux professionals and managers in our area (including a large number of recruiters).

Social & Professional Network

After most PLUG meetings we usually have a social/networking period. You can shoot pool, grab a snack, relax, and discuss things that matter to you. It is a great opportunity to get exposed to ideas that you may not normally think about. You might find your next job or business opportunity, or a solution to a challenging problem. We don't bite - honestly. Well, harleypig bites - we keep him chained up though.

Sponsorship

PLUG has various sponsorship opportunities available. Perhaps your business can sponsor a high-profile presenter, food for a meeting, discounts for PLUG members, or a special service. Nearly the entire membership is actively employed in various professional positions surrounding Linux/FOSS. It is a unique opportunity to gain brand recognition, and "street cred" with the FOSS community.

Volunteer Opportunities

You may not be a kernel hacker, but you can still give back to the FOSS community that has given us so much. PLUG needs help with the web site, server administration, PHP programming, mailing list management, meeting organization/presentation, employment.... the list goes on. If you'd like to give some of your time to further advance the cause of FOSS in our local community, PLUG is the perfect place to start.

There are now more ways than ever to participate. If you have an idea for a service you would like to see provided, please share it!