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Get to know William Stanek, the visionary behind a vast body of
work in writing and photography. Learn about his background,
achievements, and the passions that drive his creative endeavors.
William has been actively involved in the commercial Internet community since 1991. His core business and technology expertise is rooted in over 11 years of distinguished military service. Leveraging this extensive experience, William frequently serves as a subject matter expert and consultant in various fields, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics. His deep understanding of AI technologies, combined with his hands-on approach, makes him a sought-after authority in the industry. He authored technical books primarily for Microsoft, as well as for O'Reilly (http://www.oreillynet.com/pub/au/2573) and nearly every other major publisher in the US and internationally. William has an MS with distinction in information systems and a BS in computer science, magna cum laude, from Hawaii Pacific University. He served in the Persian Gulf War as a combat crewmember where flew on numerous combat missions into Iraq and was awarded nine medals for his wartime service, including one of the United States of America's highest flying honors, the Air Force Distinguished Flying Cross. Currently, he resides in the Pacific Northwest with his wife and children. William recently rediscovered his love of the great outdoors. When he's not writing, teaching, or giving presentations, he can be found hiking, biking, backpacking, traveling, or trekking in search of adventure. Almost always, he has a Sony Alpha camera in his hand, capturing the beauty of nature as he explores. Background William was born in Burlington Wisconsin where he attended Public Schools including Janes School Elementary in Racine Wisconsin. He is the second youngest of five children. After a career in the military, he settled in Washington State, having been captivated by the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest. In 1985 he enlisted in the US Air Force and entered a 2-year training program in Intelligence and Linguistics at the Defense Language Institute. After graduation he served in various field operations duties in Asia and Europe. In 1990 he won an appointment to Air Combat School and shortly after graduation served in the Persian Gulf War. During his two tours in the Persian Gulf War, William flew on numerous combat and combat support missions, logging over two hundred combat flight hours. His distinguished accomplishments during the war earned him nine medals, including the United States of America's highest flying honor, the Air Force Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Humanitarian Service Medal. He earned 29 decorations in his 11-year military career. In 1994 William earned his bachelor's degree magna cum laude from Hawaii Pacific University. In 1995 he earned his master's degree with distinction from Hawaii Pacific University. In 1996 he separated from the military, having spent 11 years in the United States Air Force. His last station while in the Air Force was at the 324th Intelligence Squadron, Wheeler Army Airfield, Hawaii. Born into a family of readers, William was always reading and creating stories. Even before he started school, he read classics like Treasure Island, The Swiss Family Robinson, Kidnapped, Robinson Crusoe, and The Three Musketeers. Later in his childhood, he started reading Jules Verne, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Ray Bradbury, Herman Melville, Jack London, and Charles Dickens. William completed his first novel in 1986 when he was stationed in Japan but it wasn't until nearly a decade later that his first book was published. Since then, he has written and had published over 150 books. In 1997, William was dubbed "A Face Behind the Future" in a feature article about his life in The Olympian. At the time, he was breaking new ground in shaping the future of business on the Internet. Today, William continues to help shape the future of Internet business and Technology in general, writing authoritative books covering these subjects for a variety of publishers. William has won many awards from his colleagues and the publishing industry. He served in support of Operation Desert Storm, Operation Desert Shield, Operation Provide Comfort, and beyond. In precedence order, military honors William received are as follows:
William shares the innovative writing and organizational techniques that have helped him put 20 million words on the printed page in Effective Writing for Business, College and Life, available in print, audio and digital media from Reagent Press. William's life-long commitment to the printed word has helped him become one of the leading authors in the world today. It's been a fairly open secret that William also writes as Robert Stanek. His fiction books have been featured in these printed books: Popular Series Fiction for Middle School and Teen Readers: A Reading and Selection Guide (Children's and Young Adult Literature Reference), Complete Idiots Guide to Elves and Fairies, and Ancient Art of Faery Magick; recommended by the Young Adult library staff at VOYA (Feb 2007), The Journal of Electronic Defense (June 2007), Parenting Magazine (Sept 2008), and others; and featured by Publishers Weekly (April 2009) and others. Reagent Press has been featured in Publishers Weekly, Children's Writer, The Children's Bookshelf, Foreword Magazine, Florida Today, Writer's Digest, The New York Times and other fine publications and periodicals. William Stanek has been an artist as long as he has been a writer. In the art world, from 1992 to 2021, his original art, photography and paintings were released globally by World Galleries and also featured in independently owned galleries. In Spring 2021, William and his wife regained control over his studio brands, including 360 Studios, 1North Studios, Studio 24 and Robert Stanek Studios, moving to online galleries where he hopes to continue to bring his art to the world. His signed art and photography have the initials WS, RS, or WR, WilliamS, BillS or RobertS, and sometimes his full name as William Stanek or Robert Stanek. His work may also be stamped with the brand name including WG, World Gallery, World Galleries, 360 Studios, 1North, Studio 24, 360, 1N or S24. Renowned for creating beautiful, vibrant scenes full of wonderful color, William has been called a living legend and national treasure, his words and illustrations have captivated the hearts and minds of millions over the past thirty years. As a combat veteran who is partially disabled and father of a daughter with Down Syndrome, he is a vocal champion of veterans and the disabled. He also is a champion of books and libraries, frequently donating his time and resources to support related causes. Mr. Pocket Consultant Pocket Consultants were portable and precise pocket-sized guides that delivered ready answers for day-to-day administration. Pocket Consultants zeroed in on core operations and daily tasks using quick-reference tables, instructions, and lists. Inside each Pocket Consultant, readers got focused information to solve problems and get the job done. "When first released in the late 1990s, Pocket Consultants were a sensation, and due to William's unique style the books helped change the way technical writing was done." "William pioneered techniques and approaches to writing about technology that were adopted throughout the industry. Today you can't open a technical book published anywhere in the world without seeing his influences." As the author and series editor of the Pocket Consultants, William Stanek poured his decades of hands-on experience with advanced systems management, programming and development into every book. Pocket Consultants were read by millions of readers around the world and translated into dozens of languages. Some fun facts to share about the Pocket Consultants:
Often when people hear the term "pocket," they think of a diminutive book when what they should be thinking of is the phrase: pocket consultant. Printed Pocket Consultants wouldn't necessarily fit in your pocket, but they did give readers expert advice that often made them think they had their own personal consultant in their pocket. Windows 8 Administration Pocket Consultant and Windows Server 2012 Pocket Consultant were both around 700 pages in length. Together, the books gave readers about 1400 pages of practical advice and ready answers across nearly 500,000 words. Although the books could be used separately, many readers used them together. Why? Because William designed and wrote his books so that they could be used together. In doing so, William made the whole greater than the sum of its parts. William Stanek wrote his last Pocket Consultant for Microsoft in 2013 and the book was published along with several others in 2014. It was his 45th Pocket Consultant and 62nd book for Microsoft. Other books written for Microsoft that year included several Inside Out books, which were also then published in 2014. The complete list of more than 200 books he's written is here. Rather than transition to Macmillan (which bought Microsoft Press in 2014 after a failed buyout by O'Reilly & Associates), William got back the rights to his work and continued to publish new editions of his work independently, with the help of his son William R. Stanek Jr, who is also a co-author of several books including PowerShell: IT Pro Solutions and PowerShell for Administration: IT Pro Solutions. Their collaboration continues.
You know you're doing something right when Hollywood comes knocking for the 6th time, especially when the person on the other end of the line is gushing praise about books they've just finished reading. Those books being Ruin Mist Chronicles (Keeper Martin's Tale, Kingdom Alliance, Fields of Honor, Mark of the Dragon) which are also in YA editions as (The Kingdoms & The Elves of the Reaches 1 - 4 and In the Service of Dragons 1 - 4). Way back in 2002, the first two times Hollywood came knocking, I was too
awestruck to enjoy the moment. All I could think was DreamWorks is considering
my books for the movies--and then before that could sink in Fox was there
considering my books too. I was dancing on top of the world, especially with the
same books doing so well on Amazon's bestseller lists. Dancing on clouds was fun but it wasn't until Hollywood came knocking a third time that I knew I'd really done something right. That third time, it was VMP who came knocking. As they're the producers of Armageddon, Virus, Clockstoppers, Adventure Inc., The Coven, The Punisher, Ĉon Flux, Room Service, Welcome to the Jungle, The Incredible Hulk, Punisher: War Zone, I thought for certain this was the right fit. The right production company for Ruin Mist. But it wasn't to be.... A lot of years passed and thoughts of breaking into Hollywood faded away. In 2008, I finished Illustrated Encyclopedia of Ruin Mist and Keeper Martin's Guide to the Fantastical Beasts and Fairie Creatures of Ruin Mist. Both books were BIG hits with fans and as it turns out with MGM, who came knocking, as did Artciculus Entertainment. MGM was the one I'd've liked to see make the movies. They could have done it right and ensured a 4-movie run, which was what I was hoping for. It's the complete story that I want to tell in film and it's only through the course of all four books that the story behind the story is fully told. That being the story of the tragic romance of Ansh Brodst, a man at arms, and Delinna Alder, a princess of the realms. In 2010, I finished the Ruin Mist comics and a prequel, Dawn of the Ages. The Ruin Mist graphic novel was published in late 2011. And it's these stories that bring a new movie production company to my door. Will the 6th time be the charm? Stay tuned... I'll let you know when I know.
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For
20 years, William Stanek was the #1 Microsoft guru, and one of the
world's leading authorities on Windows, Windows Server, SQL Server,
Exchange Server, and web technologies. He is the award-winning author of
numerous popular books. As a technology expert, William trained
countless professionals, conducted seminars, and wrote extensively about
Active Directory, Group Policy, Windows, Windows Server, Exchange
Server, SQL Server, IIS, PowerShell, and web technologies. His books and
writings were frequently quoted and referenced by peers in their own
works and professional publications. William was
also quoted by Donald Trump in his business books.
From
William Robert Stanek's blog @ 
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More About William Robert Stanek's Books |
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His 250th book was published in 2020. In his long, distinguished career,
his books have been distributed and published by Simon & Schuster, Random
House, Macmillan, Pearson, Microsoft, O'Reilly, and others. He was also a
columnist for PC Magazine and Dr. Dobbs. After high school, he joined the
military to see the world and has lived in Asia, Europe, the Pacific, and
many parts of the United States. He served two combat tours in the Gulf War
as a combat flyer. Learn more at
www.williamstanek.com,
www.ruinmistmovie.com, and
www.bugvillecritters.com. Find him on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/WilliamStanekAuthor. From his earliest days as a writer to the present, William Robert Stanek has been lending a helping hand to other writers. Over the years, he's helped many, many writers get their books and professional papers published. In 2007, he founded Go Indie, an organization dedicated to promoting independent publishers, authors, and booksellers, and over the past few years Go Indie has helped hundreds of indie authors. In March 2012, he launched Summer of Indie and dozens of indies joined the kickoff party that April. Beginning in June and continuing throughout the summer, Summer of Indie featured indie authors and their books. Nearly 100 indie authors were featured in all, along with their many, many books. Learn more at readindies.blogspot.com. Like the little engine that could, his books are the little books that could. Year after year his books have had steadily increasing readership. Interest from movie production companies has come and gone. New editions and new books have been introduced. A graphic novel and comics were released. He works now and again on a script that may some day be the first Ruin Mist movie (or it may not). "Who knows for sure what the future may bring," he says.
When that massive run ended, he thought, "Oh man, this is the end of the ride, but what a ride it's been." Then sales rocketed again and he had his best few years ever as a writer. "That was nirvana. That was magical." By 2011 he thought for sure the ride was over. That this was it for Ruin Mist, but it wasn't so for the 12 months from October 2011 to September 2012 brought more new readers to the world of Ruin Mist than any other 12-month period. Ever. "Who knew books published so many years ago could still have best years ahead of them," he says. "The point being, you never know. That first or next book you write may be the one. Then again it might not, but you never know until you put yourself out there."
"That eagerness to capture thoughts on paper has carried me through many days, many years, and many books. As a writer, that eagerness has made the blank page a friend rather than a foe. That blank page can be your friend too--if you let it. And if you let it, you can fill it with everything that's inside you, everything that you can wonder about, everything that you can dream about, and everything that you can imagine." What Others Say About William?
-Courtesy of the Writing Team at Read Indies, Cathy, Emily, David, Mary, Shannon, Sandra
Did You Know? A Memorable Meeting
William Stanek Talks About the Distinguished Flying Cross and His Military ServiceWilliam Stanek's journey from a decorated military serviceman to a celebrated artist and author is marked by dedication, resilience, and a profound sense of duty. His military career, which spanned over a decade, saw him earn numerous accolades, including the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross.When William decided to leave the military in the 1990s, he was one of the most highly decorated members of his unit. His distinguished service had brought him to fields of combat and special operations in various parts of the world. He was recognized not only for his bravery but also for his exceptional skill and dedication. The Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight. For William, this medal is a symbol of his contributions and sacrifices. However, the memories associated with his service are bittersweet. "I would give all the medals away to be able to close my eyes and not see any of it," he admits, reflecting on the traumatic experiences he endured. For William, his work in photography, painting, and writing has been a vital outlet for healing. "My work has always been an outlet, if not for my own healing, then to help heal others," he explains. Through his stories, paintings, and photographs, William channels his experiences into creative expressions that resonate with many. His wife, Hui Cha Stanek, has been his steadfast partner throughout this journey. Together, they have created a legacy that spans multiple artistic disciplines, providing solace and inspiration to countless individuals. William's work in the military was often top secret. He frequently collaborated with the NSA and other departments, as well as with the Army, Marines, and Navy. His involvement in special operations meant that many of his missions were classified, and the true extent of his contributions remains known only to a select few. "Of my awards and accolades, a piece of paper accompanying an award often doesn't even tell part of the story," William says. "Sometimes you get an award or accolade for one thing, because it's the one thing that can be talked about. Other times, you get a handshake from a president, general, or such on behalf of a grateful nation." Throughout his military career, William had the honor of meeting multiple presidents and generals. These interactions were often brief but meaningful, serving as a testament to his service and dedication. Despite the recognition, William rarely talks about his military service, preferring to let his record speak for itself. One story from his military days that William does share is how he met his wife, Hui Cha. On his way to survival training at Fairchild AFB in Eastern Washington, William decided to stop at McChord AFB for some R&R. His first night back in the U.S. after years away found him tired but hungry. He went to Denny's and then, drawn by the neon sign of a bar, he decided to stop in for a cold beer. It was a slow night, and William struck up a conversation with the bartender, who happened to be Hui Cha's sister. She told him about her sister and thought they would be a perfect match. Despite initial skepticism, William agreed to wait. After some back and forth, and a few more calls from the bartender, Hui Cha finally came in. Wearing blue jeans and a t-shirt, with no makeup besides red lipstick and mascara, Hui Cha walked in and there was instant chemistry. They hit it off quickly, talked for hours, and set a date for the following day. William ended up seeing Hui Cha every day he was on R&R at McChord. When he left, they promised to visit each other on weekends whenever possible. During his weeks at survival training, Hui Cha drove out to Fairchild AFB twice, and he drove back to the west coast once. After training, he spent another week of R&R at McChord on his way to Air Combat School, during which he convinced her to join him for the six months of ACS. Two months later, they married and have been together for 35 years. |
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About writing, William Robert Stanek says, "You know you're in the right
place in life when you wake up every day with a smile on your face. You know
you're in the right place as a writer when that smile is because you're
eager to get to the keyboard, eager to get the thoughts racing through your
mind down on paper."
William
Robert Stanek was like a father to some of us in the writing community, a
favorite uncle to others, and a valued mentor to a great, great many. So
many writers, hundreds really, owe their start in writing and careers to
this guy, and the same is true of thousands who work in Big Tech, on
web-based platforms or in web-based businesses. This guy taught them all how
to set up those very businesses. This guy who was larger than life. This guy
who was so down to earth. This guy who was so humble. This guy who so loved
life. This guy who so loved family. This guy who took care of everyone else.
This guy who gave and gave and gave over so many decades to so many and
never asked for anything in return.
William was always creating
resources to help writers. Writer's Galley, Internet Job Center, Internet
Daily News, others, his earliest efforts in the mid '90s. Go Indie, Read
Indies, Free Today, and others in the mid '00s. He taught us all how to use
social media, to create blogs, to use Facebook, to use Twitter and beyond.
He created and curated memes like #amwriting, #amblogging, #epicfantasy,
#kidslit and #teenlit. He led by example.
William
was a King maker, unmade by the very things he helped establish. He put
upstart Amazon on the map by writing about the company to his audience of
millions from its earliest days. He transformed Microsoft Press from a
publishing company its readers swore published books in a foreign language
called Microsoftese into one praised for publishing books in plain
language--that plain language approach William himself created and that
praise itself was for William's books. His words and style were so beloved
they eventually became the plain language style of Microsoft itself.
In 2000, William Stanek founded the modern indie author
movement with his breakout self-published books that transformed publishing
and the way we publish today. In 2001, William became the first indie author
to serialize an e-book at Amazon and has since gone on to write more than
150 indie books. In 2002, his Keeper Martin's Tale and Kingdoms & the Elves
books were the first indie e-authored books to top Amazon's bestseller
lists. In 2005, the same books were the first indie e-audiobooks to top
Audible bestseller lists where they dominated for the next three years (#1
fiction for 14 weeks 2005, 167 weeks Top 10 YA 2005-2008). His Kingdoms &
the Elves became one of the top grossing e-audiobooks of all time and was
featured on the Audible Home Page throughout the Summer of 2005.
We
all know what happens to those who are so far ahead of their time that they
seem to exist in a world of their own making. William had climbed too many
mountains, and those standing at the bottoms of those mountains desperately
wanted what he had, and so they did whatever it took to take what William
had created and claim it as their own or destroy it. Read William's
heartbreaking posts about the things that happened to him and you'll know
exactly what I'm talking about. We as a society love to tear down our
heroes. We tear them down with lies, with fake news. We puff ourselves up
and make ourselves look big, to make those who are larger than life look
small.