Things have been quiet around here lately and I have a one word explanation….SQLRally. There’s work and family and several other community commitments, but mostly SQLRally. The good news is that the time has come and I couldn’t be more excited. I haven’t been to a SQLSaturday or community event in months and I’m having serious withdrawal symptoms.
I’ll have several after event posts on SQLRally and the process, but I want to highlight two things I am looking forward to. I am hoping you will join me there as well.
Pre-Cons
If you want the most bang for your buck where you are guaranteed to leave with skills you can implement immmediately, then this is the right investment. You can visit the SQLRally site to choose the best one for you, but here is some insider suggestions.
How to be a DBA – Utility Belt of Tools by Tjay Belt and Chris Shaw. I’m attending this one and it looks to be a great one.
Leadership and Team Management Skills for the Database Professional by Kevin Kline. Have you met Kevin? If not you need to, because he is the most down to earth and personable guy you’ll meet. I watched Kevin present part of this pre-con on SQLCruise earlier this year. I honestly did not expect to get anything out of it and had no interest in a professional development session, but I was sorely mistaken. You’ll learn things about yourself and others you never saw or considered before. This pre-con is guaranteed ROI and I’m not just saying that because of the fruity drinks on SQLCruise.
Demystifying Database Administration Best Practices by Argenis Fernandez and Robert Davis. I’m attending this one and it is by far the one I am most excited about. A pre-con delivered by two SQL MCMs. No way you can lose on that! I know Robert and he’s awesome. I sat at his Birds of a Feather at the Summit last year and he even took the time to help me with a presentation of mine (which I am also presenting at SQLRally). I haven’t met Argenis yet, but I’m looking forward to it. Go watch the #sqlhelp hash tag for awhile and it won’t take long to see why you don’t want to miss Argenis.
After Events
Meet the SQL Professionals – This networking event is open to anyone, whether you attend SQLRally or not. The speakers will be here so this is your chance to build a personal relationship with the best speakers and professionals in the industry. The North Texas SQL Server User Group is hosting the event in conjunction with their annual sponsors, InSource Group and Idera. Don’t miss out on this great time and it’s walkable from the Dallas Convention Center. Here are the details.
Wednesday, May 9 – 5:00pm – 10:00pm
Aloft Dallas Downtown
1033 Young Street
Dallas, TX 75202
Click here to RSVP
Evening Event and SQLKaraoke – If you have never attended a SQLKaraoke event then you are in for a treat. Don’t worry if you’re not a singer, you can just hang out. The North Texas SQL Server User Group is hosting the event in conjunction with their annual sponsors, InSource Group and Idera. Here are the details, but let’s talk about how easy it is to get there. NTSSUG has chartered a private bus that will have continual shuttle service between the convention center and the venue! I’m biased, but this is the coolest user group ever!!!
Thursday, May 10 – 7:00pm – 11:55pm
Uptown Bar and Grill
2523 McKinney Ave.
Dallas, TX 75201
Click here to RSVP
