Microsoft Most Valuable Professional – Data Platform

Today, I’m proud to announce that I have been named a Microsoft MVP – Data Platform.  This is an exceptional honor and I’m humbled to be included in this group of exceptional data professionals. I really look forward to working with everyone in the MVP community and continuing to contribute to our unmatched SQL Community!

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What is an MVP?

Here’s the definition according to Microsoft

Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals, or MVPs, are technology experts who passionately share their knowledge with the community. They are always on the “bleeding edge” and have an unstoppable urge to get their hands on new, exciting technologies. They have very deep knowledge of Microsoft products and services, while also being able to bring together diverse platforms, products and solutions, to solve real world problems. MVPs are driven by their passion, community spirit and their quest for knowledge. Above all and in addition to their amazing technical abilities, MVPs are always willing to help others – that’s what sets them apart.

For 2017, I have been named a Data Platform MVP, which means my technical specialization is on data products like SQL Server. The group of people that have received this award is quite small…by my count 403 worldwide and 100 in the US. I’m honored to be in this group of extremely talented professionals.

Why I’m excited to be an MVP?

Honestly, the primary reason I’m excited to be an MVP is to give back (more), I’ve learned so much from other MVPs and receiving this award will help me build relationships with other MVPs and Microsoft employees to further help develop the Data Platform itself and the community that surrounds that platform.

At the start of 2016 I had set a goal of being an MVP in 5 years. I don’t know why I picked that number, but what I figured was…MVP would be validation of consistent, quality work for our community and being recognized for the work that I’ve contributed. Things like blogging, social medial, public speaking and more. You learn a ton by teaching!

People that have helped along the way

I’d like to thank some folks that have helped me along the way…

  • My wife and family – I certainly couldn’t have done this without their support.
  • Other MVPs – you folks give your time freely and people like me consume what you produce to enrich ourselves. Thank you!
  • Paul Randal – I was in Paul’s 2015 mentoring class, he helped me set the direction of my community involvement. Invaluable guidance!
  • Brent Ozar – without his career blog and I’d have to figure our a lot of stuff on my own. Thanks bud!
  • Steve Jones – him and SQLServerCentral.com have really help give my blog a larger audience. I’ll never forget that first time I got an email about being on the front page of his site :)
  • Microsoft – thanks to you for this recognition!