Windows Vista (SP1 or no SP1) and Windows XP SP3 are old news, as Microsoft now shifts its focus on the next version of the Windows operating system: Windows 7. Do you want to be the first to know everything that moves over in Redmond in terms of Windows 7, as the platform is in the building phase, long before the product will be out the door? Do you want to be among the first to see what's coming down the pipeline for the next iteration of Windows along with the development team? And do you want the possibility to deliver your impact in setting the agenda for Windows development? Then, Microsoft is right about good and ready to accommodate you in the front row for the Windows 7 spectacle, and even to put you into the show.

"I've got a once-in-a-lifetime open position on my team that I'm currently trying to fill - a Technical Evangelist for the next Windows client release. In fact, the Technical Evangelist at this point in time. This is an extremely challenging, high-profile senior role, with tremendous reach and influence across the organization. Not only will you be the first to see what's coming down the pipeline, but you'll actually have an influence in setting the agenda for Windows development. This isn't just any software gig - it's one of those career-defining roles that puts you at the heart of the software revolution. In years to come, you'll be able to look back with pride and say, 'I was part of that'," revealed Tim Sneath, Microsoft group manager for client platforms.

The open position for Technical Evangelist - Corp/HQ has been up since December 11, 2007, but so far Microsoft has failed to find anyone interested and able to take on this dream role with the Windows project. Microsoft has been hammering away at the Windows kernel throughout 2007 producing MinWin, and the company is dogfooding Windows 7, having already shipped an early development milestone for the operating system to key partners. However, at this point in time, there are no official comments from Microsoft related to Windows 7. With some exceptions.

"Are you passionate about building Windows applications? Are you technically deep enough to impress any developer audience but also enough of a big-picture thinker to communicate the business opportunities of a new platform to a senior director? Have you dreamed of being able to influence strategy for the next major release of Windows and beyond?" - reads the job description for Technical Evangelist - Corp/HQ. "As a Windows 7 technical evangelist, you'll help shape the technical developer evangelism strategy and messaging for the Windows 7 developer platform. You'll participate in deep engagements with early adopters as they evaluate the platform and provide feedback. You'll have visibility across the entire Windows division, working with thought leaders around the company to demonstrate the new scenarios enabled by their next generation of technology, and the value that will bring to developers."