Yes, this is absolutely a shameless post for self-promotion. However, since potential attendees get to offer input into what sessions they want to see at the Summit, you all play a big part in whether one of my sessions gets selected or not. The easiest way to do it? Go to the link, select Brian Kelley from the list of speakers and click Search. When my four sessions come up, mark them all as preferred. Wait a second, you want a reason to actually go vote for them? Okay, that makes sense, so would I.

From the Ramparts: Knowing What to Look for in SQL Server Security

Yes, I know it's rated 100. That's because there is content in the presentation that can be usable by a novice. But based on the ratings I got at SQL Connections, it was applicable to all levels. That's the way it was designed. So why is this presentation different from normal security presentations like the other ones out there? Three key reasons:

• It's from an attacker's perspective. As defenders we tend to focus on our strengths. That's natural. As attackers we tend to focus on the defender's weaknesses. That's also natural. And there's a typical methodology attackers employ to gut a SQL Server. This session presents things from an attacker's view. If you can see through the attacker's eyes, you can align your defenses accordingly.
• It's not just about SQL Server. I was an infrastructure and security architect. I still function in that role from time to time within my organization. So I know that protecting SQL Server is more than just about SQL Server and often getting into SQL Server is about a weakness at another layer. So I cover it all. Network. OS. Utilities. Apps. And SQL Server. Even if you're "just" a DB pro, you should know the other areas where weaknesses can occur. You need to know where to look to make sure others in your organization are looking in those areas, too.
• I talk about real world compromises. Not just theory, but why these defenses and these mechanisms need to be in place to prevent attacks we've seen and know all too well. 

Windows Operating System Internals for DB Pros

I did rate this a 400 because we'll delve into thread scheduling and kernel vs. user mode and the like. One of the biggest strengths I think I bring to my organization as a SQL Server DBA is my operating system knowledge. It allows me to spot issues affecting our SQL Servers that others might miss. Having a deep understanding of how the OS functions and how it can affect SQL Server can really set you apart if you're trying to troubleshoot a problem. That's what I talk about in this session. And once again, I bring real world examples of why knowing this stuff can help solve the issue with problems I have personally encountered that weren't due to SQL Server but what was making our SQL Servers look bad.

Being the Swiss Army Knife of Database Professionals

I've had a very strong interest in being extremely flexible in my IT career and it has served me well. While I love being a DBA, my time in other complementary fields have proven to be an asset time and time again when dealing with real-world problems. Once again I'm going to talk real world situations that I've been in personally and how having those complentary skill sets have helped me keep SQL Server in good stead. I'll talk about how to build these complimentary skill sets, where to start based on your current experience, and how to know when to apply it. Not only does this give you a leg up on other DBAs who aren't as diverse, it gives you options if you want/need to make a job change.

How to Be a More Effective DB Professional without Losing Your Mind (or Life)

A few years ago I really, really hit the wall professionally and personally with respect to time management. I effectively work two full time jobs between my IT professional career and my ministry work. Add in to that my professional commitments to the community and my family. Therefore, time management and finding a balance to everything is important for my sanity and for the people and ideas I care about the most. That meant I had to spend a lot of time considering how to best do what I cared about and let go of what I didn't. Simple to say, but very difficult to do. Over the last few years I've worked on my system and thrived despite personal tragedy, health issues, and growing family commitments. But to be perfectly honest, I'm really just standing on the shoulders of giants who came before me, who figured things out and shared them. I'll introduce you to these giants, show you what has worked for me and what hasn't, and give you the information you can use to help revamp or fine tune your system to be more effective and more content with your life.