We’ve all heard stories about the unsung heroes in IT, and Database Administrators (DBAs) are often at the top of that list. Imagine a DBA so dedicated that they prioritize the health and security of their organization’s data above all else, even exceeding the expectations of their managers. This isn’t just dedication; it’s the hallmark of an exceptional DBA – someone who understands the critical importance of data integrity and goes the extra mile to ensure it. These are the professionals who not only manage complex systems but also contribute to the wider SQL Server community, sharing their knowledge and experience. It’s time these individuals received the recognition they deserve.
This dedication is precisely why initiatives like the 2012 Exceptional DBA of the Year Awards were created. Hosted by the respected SQLServerCentral.com and sponsored by Red Gate Software, these awards aimed to spotlight the DBAs who consistently demonstrate excellence in their field.
Do You Know an Exceptional DBA? Or Are You One?
The beauty of the Exceptional DBA of the Year Awards was its inclusive nature. Whether you believed you embodied the qualities of an exceptional DBA, or you knew a colleague who consistently went above and beyond, nominations were encouraged from all corners. This was a chance for the SQL Server community to collectively identify and celebrate its brightest stars.
To be considered for this prestigious recognition, DBAs had to be nominated – either by themselves or by their peers. This simple act of nomination was the first step in a process designed to identify true excellence in database administration.
The Path to Recognition: Judging and Community Vote
The nomination process for the 2012 awards was thorough and respected. A panel of four industry experts – Steve Jones, Grant Fritchey, Rodney Landrum, and Brad McGehee – undertook the responsibility of reviewing each application. These judges, all well-known and respected figures in the SQL Server world, brought their deep expertise to the selection process. They meticulously evaluated the nominations to identify the top contenders.
Following the initial judging phase, five finalists were selected. This is where the SQL Server community played a crucial role. The finalists were then presented to the community for a vote, alongside a final vote from the judges. This combination of expert evaluation and community input ensured a balanced and fair selection process, truly reflecting who the community considered to be the most exceptional DBA of the year.
The Rewards of Excellence
The Exceptional DBA of the Year Award was more than just a title; it came with tangible rewards designed to further the winner’s professional journey and recognize their achievements. The winner received:
- An Award Plaque: A physical symbol of their achievement and recognition as the Exceptional DBA of the Year.
- Feature on Simple-Talk: Profiled on Simple-Talk, a leading online community for database professionals, increasing their visibility and industry recognition.
- Full Conference Registration for PASS Summit 2012: Access to the premier event for SQL Server and data professionals, offering unparalleled learning and networking opportunities.
- Four Nights Hotel Accommodations: Ensuring comfortable attendance at the PASS Summit.
- $300 Towards Travel Expenses: Supporting travel to the PASS Summit.
- SQL DBA Bundle License: A license for Red Gate’s SQL DBA Bundle, a powerful suite of tools, with 36 months of support and upgrades, empowering them with top-tier resources.
These prizes were carefully selected to provide both immediate recognition and long-term professional benefits, truly investing in the winner’s continued success.
Celebrate DBA Excellence
While the 2012 Exceptional DBA of the Year Awards has concluded, the spirit of recognizing and celebrating exceptional DBAs remains vital. The story of the dedicated DBA mentioned at the beginning – the one who prioritizes data and contributes to the community – is a story worth repeating and celebrating. Let’s continue to acknowledge and appreciate the critical role DBAs play in every organization. Perhaps it’s time to consider who among your colleagues deserves recognition for their exceptional contributions to the world of database administration. Think about the DBAs who consistently go above and beyond, ensuring data integrity and availability, even when faced with complex systems and challenging environments – maybe even managing what some might jokingly call a “Brad Server” with grace and expertise. These are the professionals who keep our data infrastructure running smoothly and securely, and they deserve our sincere appreciation.
To learn more about past awards and similar initiatives, exploring resources like SQLServerCentral and Red Gate Software websites is a great starting point. Let’s continue to champion excellence in the DBA profession.
