I was a little surprised to see a message of thanks for me and my old Progeny colleagues. Unfortunately, the news at Progeny’s home page was not good:
We are sorry to inform you that Progeny Linux Systems, Inc. ceased operations April 30, 2007.
It’s always a little sad to see a former employer go away, even when you feel the company brought its troubles onto itself. Imagine how much worse it is to see something die that you thought had a lot of potential, with fabulous co-workers, above-average management, and really good ideas. It’s often been said that competence and vision are not sufficient for success; without getting into the details, Progeny is now Exhibit A in making that case for me.
I am grateful for having worked there, and am proud of what we accomplished. It wasn’t easy surviving the dot-com bust and building a new business model for ourselves. And it’s certain that I wouldn’t be where I am today without the opportunities Progeny gave me.
I wish my former colleagues well as they find new jobs. Nearly everyone who passed through Progeny was top-notch, and would make excellent hires.