Since becoming a Database Administrator I’ve always looked at Microsoft MVP’s as the giants in our field.  I never once thought I could be among them. I am very humbled to be recognized as a Microsoft Data Platform MVP for 2017. Thank you to those that deemed me worthy enough to nominate me.

What is an MVP?

According to Microsoft, the MVP Award is an annual award that recognizes exceptional technology community leaders worldwide who actively share their high quality, real world expertise with users and Microsoft. Microsoft MVPs represent a highly select group of experts. MVPs share a deep commitment to community and a willingness to help others.

How did I get here?

There is no magic formula to becoming an MVP.  I blog, I tweet, I did a couple podcasts, I speak at SQL Saturdays, I run my local chapter, and I am a Regional Mentor, but that doesn’t mean you have to do the same.  The point is I try to give back to that community what they have given to me. That’s all it takes. I share what I know and just do my thing, somehow that worked and you can do it too.

What can you do to help others achieve this?

NOMINATE, NOMINATE, NOMINATE!  There are so many valuable members in the community that have not become an MVP simply because they have never been nominated. I’ve had some tell me that they thought I was already an MVP so never thought to do so. I think for a lot of us waiting in the wings for our chance this is the case. So take the time and nominate someone you deem worthy, whether you think they are already one or not.

Here is the link to do so.

https://www.mvp.microsoft.com/en-us/Nomination/NominateAnMvp

Thank You

While I said it above, thank you again to all of those who nominated and believed in me. I could not have done it without the support of the #SQLFamily all these years. I’m honored to be a Microsoft MVP.