It's their job to ensure that the corporate network is secure. They have no Linux skills. For them it is a crazy unknown risk to have Linux on their network in a way they can't control. If it's in a VM at least they can control the host OS. Sorry. Good luck!

I occasionally consider building a gaming machine but never follow through because I would have to choose between running windows or having very few supported games. If this actually happens I will be a happy man.

Yeah, this is the one to get. I've been using one for the last year. It's very durable, portable, stable and adjustable. All of the important -ables.