Journal Bruce Perens's Journal: Have you passed through the nerd filter? 4
My most recent episode was at the 9000 foot visitor station on Mauna Kea. The folks there said that I shouldn't attempt to drive up to the telescopes without a 4-wheel-drive vehicle. So, I went in the parking lot and accosted occupants of the first 4-wheel-drive vehicle that came by. The driver of said vehicle had seen me lecture in San Francisco. I got my ride.
Just by standing at that 9000 foot visitor station, I'd passed through the nerd filter.
Then, a few weeks ago, I happened to come upon a local radio club's ham radio field day operation while hiking in the woods with my wife. An co-worker from 10 years ago walked up. It turned out he'd just gotten his ham license.
This stuff happens all of the time. Of course it helps that I am somewhat recognizable in tech circles, so people who know of me tend to walk up, but on the other hand I am not that well known.
What are your experiences beyond the nerd filter?
Bruce
Hawaii Volcanoes (Score:3, Interesting)
I had gotten a couple people that work at the park interested in seeing my permission get through, but I only had about 3 weeks to work with and it was over Christmas and New Year's, so I wasn't able to do it at that time, as the permission had to come from the parks department in Washington DC. Everyone I talked to wanted to see it happen, just to see how it worked. There was obviously a lot of geek factor going on, as the rangers at the volcanoes aren't really anything like the woodsmen-type rangers you might find in the 'mainland' parks. When I go back again (probably within the next year or two), they have assured me that they can probably get permission from DC given enough lead time. I can't wait. Aerial panoramics above the volcanoes will be something else!
~GoRK
Re:Hawaii Volcanoes (Score:2)
~GoRK
Perhaps you have "recognizable" face? (Score:2)
Traveler's filter (Score:2)