[lprubin]

Can you build infrastructure for your company's internal processes or marketing? If so, building something that has a net multiplier on your company is very impressive to employers and shows your value. Do so with a hot new technology you want to learn and it's win win.

As an alternative, use the time to contribute to popular open source projects. That will build yor developer cred and make you more attractive to future employers.

Or take on your own freelance work and get paid double.