SQLPeople

1. Everyone’s an accidental DBA (or database professional) – what’s your story? How’d you become a SQLPerson?

I started working with data a long time ago, using a DOS program called Enable to create and manage various lists and inventories to help me get tasks done faster and better. Working with data seemed obvious and the tools weren’t bad. Over time I figured how to read and write the dBase III file format so that I write my own front ends using Quick Basic and still have the adhoc reporting I could get from other tools. When Access v1 came out I purchased a copy and it was definitely nice to stop managing bytes on disk directly, and I used it to solve a few more problems at work. Data was just a hobby for me until 1998 when I moved into a IT job that was part junior DBA, part ETL, and started working with SQL Server 6.5. It wasn’t a hard transition; though I recommend wondering at the value of naming indexes (they didn’t get a name in Access). I was at the job for a year or so when the client I was supporting left, they asked which I’d prefer, DBA or developer, and it was a few minutes of thinking. I like building things, I like data too, which to choose? Ultimately I became their first DBA and still managed to keep a toe in the developer world – in a data centric way of course! I suspect I’m not much different than most SQL people, apps are interesting, but it’s the data and the possibilities that intrigue me.

2. What’s your favorite part of your current gig?

Right now I’m about 80% consultant and 20% trainer, and I enjoy the variety. I think my favorite part is when I can look into a particularly tough business problem and use my experience to pose alternatives that are often way outside the box they expect from a DBA type guy. Getting paid to solve problems? Hard to get a better job!

3. Complete this sentence: “If I could do anything else, I would…”

Manage a non-profit. I like doing SQL stuff, but eventually I’ll find a way to combine my other interests and skills to move beyond SQL.

4. Complete this sentence: “When I’m not working I enjoy…”

Reading, woodworking, time with my family, and quiet time at home.

5. Complete this sentence: “I think the coolest thing in technology today is…”

The rate of change in cell phones and tablets. Computers are finally becoming part of our every day lives in a way that makes sense. That said, I think virtualization – even for us SQL people – is a game changer, and I’m really curious to see what happens when the price of solid state drives drops by a factor of two or three.

6. Complete this sentence: “I look forward to the day when I can use technology to…”

Really do remote collaboration. Right now anything besides being in the same room is a second class experience, can’t wait for that to change.

7. Share something different about yourself. (Remember, it’s a family blog!)

My professional persona is outgoing, but away from work I’m reserved. Being outgoing is tiring and after a day or two I have to find some place to get coffee and read for a while, recharge my social battery.

Originally published June 27th, 2011.