SQLSaturday #294 - Philadelphia 2014
Event Date: 06/07/2014 00:00:00
Event Location:
- 45 Liberty Blvd.
- Malvern, Pennsylvania
This event has completed. All data shown below is from the historical XML public data available.
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Sessions
This is a list of sessions from the event, based on the schedule in the XML files.
Title: Using Hive to Query and Process Big Data
Abstract: Writing map-reduce jobs to process data is not a trivial experience. To do this effectively you really need to be a seasoned java or C# programmer. Even then it is a time consuming experience. A very useful tool available to create and run Map-reduce jobs in Hadoop is Hive. HiveQL is a declarative language modeled to provide a similar experience as writing SQL. If you are familiar with SQL the use of HiveQL should be very intuitive. With HiveQL you construct and run the statement, submitting it to a query engine. The query engine transforms the query into a series of map-reduce jobs. By not having to worry about the low level coding you become much more productive and can concentrate on data analysis. This session is designed to get you up to speed and productive with hive. It includes several practical examples in order to make data analysis with hive as concrete as possible.
Speaker(s):
- Dan Clark
Track and Room: BI I - N/A
Title: Beyond Stereotypes: Equality, Gender Neutrality, and Valuing Team Diversity
Abstract: Are there times when you feel the “odd one out” on your team? Do you have to make an effort to fit in? Often, even when there isn’t blatant sexism, racism or other discrimination in play, there can still be a lot of peer pressure to conform to the group and consequences if you don’t. Join us as our panel discusses some central questions around promoting equality and respect in the workplace. We’ll discuss hard topics like how to establish, build, and grow relationships with co-workers in a diverse setting, how to deal with situations where you – or a colleague – suffer from social exclusion, and how to arrange social events that are inclusive and promote teamwork in a professional setting. And we’ll share ideas on what we can do to enhance each individual’s contributions and build stronger, more effective teams.
Speaker(s):
- Joseph D’Antoni
Track and Room: Misc - N/A
Title: Using Apache Solr with SQL for Text Searching
Abstract: Big Data is quickly becoming THE thing to do. Even Microsoft is getting in on the game with HDInsight and Azure. In this session we will cover how to use Apache Solr, a Lucene based Open Source search engine, to provide text indexing and search capabilities and how to integrate it with SQL Server. Not only can Solr provide a full range of indexing and search features, but it can also be used to help improve performance of some queries commonly used in SQL Server by offloading them to Solr (the ubiquitous field search procedures as one example).
The session will cover some basics about how Solr works, starting and customizing Solr, indexing documents, search features, and how to integrate with SQL Server.
Speaker(s):
- Ashton Hobbs
Track and Room: Misc - N/A
Title: Analysis Services Relational Querying – Why Bother?
Abstract: With Microsoft Analysis Services being one of the most scalable multi-dimensional OLAP tools on the market, the relational OLAP storage method has traditionally not been given much consideration. With the release of SQL 2012, the Tabular model was introduced and offered lightning fast columnar storage and a direct query option. Is there a reason to consider, or reconsider, Analysis Services relational querying capability given the current technology landscape?
Data is more valuable when it is timely. Overnight processing windows are not always available in systems that need intra-day loads or in global systems. With a good design, relational queries can leverage the constantly improving database technologies including the use of columnar indexes and massively parallel processing (MPP) to provide business value at speed and scale.
This session will review the case for relational querying as well as the behaviors of Analysis Services operating in ROLAP and direct query modes.
Speaker(s):
- Jeff Burke
Track and Room: Misc - N/A
Title: Database Development with SQL Server Data Tools
Abstract: With the release of SQL Server 2012, the new SQL Server Data Tools serves as your primary development environment for building applications on top of SQL Server. SSDT plugs in to Visual Studio with tooling designed specifically for the application developer. With SSDT, developers no long need to constantly switch between VS and SSMS. In this session, Lenni demonstrates how SSDT is used to develop for (and deploy to) on-premise and Windows Azure SQL Database. You will learn how to use code navigation, IntelliSense, and refactoring with your database model, and how to design databases offline and under source control right from VS. Don’t miss out on this demo-centric information-packed session on the new generation of database tools for developers!
Speaker(s):
- Leonard Lobel
Track and Room: BI I - N/A
Title: Analysis Services Terms and Concepts for the DBA
Abstract: Despite some overlapping concepts, the worlds of the Relational engine and Analysis Services really are quite different. With more and more organizations realizing the power of Analytics, there is a good chance a BI initiative will come your way at some point.
This session is intended for the DBA that wants/needs to learn more about SQL Server Analysis Services. The goal is to provide a meaningful base of knowledge that will allow you to effectively participate in discussions of Analysis Services in your organization.
Through both slides and demos, you will learn: – The differences between SSAS Multidimensional and SSAS Tabular – Key terms like Measures, Dimensions, Hierarchies – Storage options such as MOLAP, HOLAP, ROLAP, and Direct Query – Monitoring with Extended Events – Overviews of MDX, DAX, and XMLA – and more
Come take a few steps into the exciting world of Business Intelligence with SQL Server Analysis Services.
Speaker(s):
- Mark Vaillancourt
Track and Room: BI II - N/A
Title: Effective Data Warehouse Storage Patterns
Abstract: Abstract:
Many companies start off with a simple data mart for reporting. As the company grows, users become dependent on the data mart for monitoring and making decisions on Key Performance Indicators (KPI).
Unexpected information growth in your data mart may lead to a performance impacted reporting system. In short, your users will be lining up at your cube for their daily reports.
How do you reduce the size of your data mart and speed up data retrieval?
This presentation will review the following techniques to fix your woes.
Coverage:
1 – What is horizontal partitioning? 2 – Database sharding for daily information. 3 – Working with files and file groups. 3 – Partitioned views for performance. 4 – Table and Index partitions. 5 – Row Data Compression. 6 – Page Data Compression. 7 – Programming a sliding window. 8 – What are Federations in Azure SQL?
Speaker(s):
- John Miner
Track and Room: BI I - N/A
Title: Visual Analytics with HDInsight and Power View
Abstract: BIG DATA! There, I’ve said it. But, what exactly does it mean for YOU?
This session will help to dispel some of the Big Data confusion. This session will focus on HD Insight, Microsoft’s Hadoop based implementation. Loading data and querying a database is one thing and that will certainly be covered. Exploring how we can integrate data from HD Insight into our existing analytic solutions is one of the real world implementations this session will be focused on. This is one of the keys to successfully selling management on the needs for a Big Data solution. It’s not just another database, it’s a tool to enhance existing analytic structures.
During this session, we’ll start with a brief overview of Hadoop and HDFS. Next we’ll take a look at HD Insight, and explore some of the features therein.
Finally, integration with SSAS and Power View (using Excel 2013) will be shown, which will close the loop on Big Data visualizations.
Speaker(s):
- Josh Fennessy
Track and Room: BI II - N/A
Title: SQL 2012 Table Compression
Abstract: SQL Server 2008 has introduced Table compression to the DBA toolkit. We all know there are different kinds of compression available in SQL Server. What some may not know is the subtleties of compression. Such subtleties include that not all Page Compressed tables are entirely page compressed. This session will show you how to reach into the database and discover compression states at the page level. At the lower level, this session will also show how to determine compression settings of objects in the database. Participants will be able to use undocumented commands as well as commands such as PIVOT to derive some interesting information from the database engine.
Speaker(s):
- Jason Brimhall
Track and Room: Professional Development - N/A
Title: DBA for Dummies
Abstract: You’re either an Accidental DBA, or someone who has inherited the awesome responsibility of the companies SQL Server databases. Until now, you knew enough to be dangerous, but now you are THE DBA. You stepped forward, volunteered, or were just drafted, and you’re a bit nervous on what to do first how to manage X number of servers. Peformance tuning, security, upgrades, migrations, oh my! This session will share experiences from the frontlines, and better organize your DBA day. Things you should do NOW, and other things you need to think about down the road. This is more a professional development on being the best DBA you can be, and how to excel in your role. Remember you are the guardian of the company’s data, now find out what to do with it! War stories, tasks, tools, and checklists will arm you with what you may face from your peers. You will come out of this ready for action and on you’re way to being a DBA superstar!
Speaker(s):
- Robert Pearl
Track and Room: Misc - N/A
Title: SQL Server Reporting Services Best Practices
Abstract: SQL Server Reporting Services is a phenomenal tool to get the ‘good word’ out to management. Working with Reporting Services can be challenging at times (to say the least) and one learns to work with its subtleties and nuances. In this hands on presentation, we shall be discussing some best practices that one should follow during the project life cycle from development to the production and implementation phases. We shall be discussing the pros and cons of utilizing shared datasets, the pluses and pitfalls of utilizing embedded reports, report utilization logging, utilization of graphics and the portability of solutions from one server to another.
Speaker(s):
- Steve Simon
Track and Room: DBA II - N/A
Title: Performance Tuning - Index Optimization
Abstract: This topic will cover best practices when optimizing index performance in your DBMS. This presentation is targeted for mid to senior level DBA’s. You will learn the optimal strategy for selecting both clustered and non-clustered indexes in your database. Along the way, we will discuss how column and index statistics can affect the performance in your queries. Finally, we will take a look at the benefits and pitfalls of using filtered, full-text search and composite indexes, their best practices, and exceptions to the rules.
Speaker(s):
- Konstantin Melamud
Track and Room: DBA I - N/A
Title: Practical SQL Azure: Moving into the Cloud
Abstract: SQL Azure has been around for a few years now but you are still running all of your databases locally. You would like to use the cloud but you just aren’t sure where to start. Come to this session and we will get you started down the right path. We will start by going over the basics of SQL Azure, including what it is, how to set it up and what the benefits and drawbacks are of it. Next, we will look at how to move an existing database into SQL Azure. Finally, we will look at how to take advantage of the benefits of the cloud to make your SQL database safer and more redundant. By the end of this session, you should have a good understanding of where you could go with SQL Azure and how to get there.
Speaker(s):
- Tim Corey
Track and Room: SQL 2014 - N/A
Title: Think like SSIS and Build a package
Abstract: You wouldn’t drive to a new place without direction? Then why build a SSIS package without having a road map on how to build it. Learn how to think like SSIS, make your ETL life easy, and convert a Process into an SSIS Package. Expect to participate activity in the class.
Speaker(s):
- Ravi Kumar
Track and Room: BI II - N/A
Title: 45 Minutes to Your First SSAS Tabular Model
Abstract: Have you heard about SSAS Tabular, maybe even know a couple things about it, but haven’t had a chance to dive in and figure out how to develop one together yourself? Now is the time! SSAS Tabular is a new form of business intelligence model released with SQL Server 2012, intended as an alternative to more traditional Multidimensional cubes. In this session, we will talk briefly about what Tabular is and what it does, before exploring the development process of creating a tabular model ready for ad-hoc querying.
Speaker(s):
- Kerry Tyler
Track and Room: Professional Development - N/A
Title: (a Few of) My Favorite DMVs
Abstract: Dynamic Management Views are a beautiful gift from Microsoft. With them you can gather immense amounts of information about your SQL environment, optimize performance issues, and solve problems you didn’t even know you had! We will dig into some of the most useful DMVs available and review some real-world code examples that illustrate what they can do for you.
Speaker(s):
- Edward Pollack
Track and Room: DBA I - N/A
Title: SQL Server Backup and Recovery Fundamentals
Abstract: Backup and Recovery are essential parts of and DBA’s job. After all, if you lose your data you lose your job so you need a great backup strategy. In this session we will cover Recovery Models, Backup Types, Backup Strategy, Restores, RTO, RPO, and understanding how your Transaction Log is maintained through backups.
Speaker(s):
- Ayman El-Ghazali
Track and Room: Misc - N/A
Title: Backup to the Cloud: Integrating On-Premises SQL Server Backup and Recovery with Window Azure
Abstract: In this session, we will discuss and demonstrate backup and recovery of your on-premises SQL Server databases to and from Windows Azure, a key Hybrid Cloud capability of SQL Server 2014. We will discuss key feature concepts such as the enhanced Backup UI, Restore UI, encrypted backups, SQL Server backup to URL, and the SQL Server Backup to Windows Azure Tool. We will also discuss the scenarios for integration of this technology.
Speaker(s):
- Timothy McAliley
Track and Room: SQL 2014 - N/A
Title: Treating Tables Like Legos, Partitioning Basics
Abstract: Partitioning allows us to isolate parts of our table as small chunks called partitions. In turn, these partitions allow us to do some really cool tricks for manageability and performance. In this session we’ll look at the concepts surrounding partitioning and how we can apply them. We’ll reinforce what we cover with some cool demo’s showing some really neat tricks.
Speaker(s):
- Brandon Leach
Track and Room: DBA II - N/A
Title: The Super Trace: Introduction to Extended Events
Abstract: Extended Events are a powerful weapon for tracing even the smallest details inside SQL Server’s engine. In this session we’ll introduce the feature, it’s components and creation and processing of a session. We will highlight differences with similar tools like Profiler and we’ll walk through the GUI for working with Extended Events as we go through demos of common situations that XEvents handle perfectly.
Speaker(s):
- Warner Chaves
Track and Room: DBA I - N/A
Title: ApexSQL Tools
Abstract: This session will be an overview of Apex SQL’s DBA tools which include ApexSQL Log, ApeSQL Comply, ApexSQL Monitor, and ApexSQL Recover, tools which allow transaction log reading, auditing, performance and recovery. Additionally, you will learn about ApexSQL’s developer tools which manage version control and data synchronization.
Speaker(s):
- Saska Cvetkovic
Track and Room: DBA II - N/A
Title: Common Problems in Backup and Recovery and How to Handle Them
Abstract: The basic concepts behind taking a backup are well understood, but people are frequently surprised by the many ways backups can go wrong. First, we’ll explore the most common problems around SQL Server backup and recovery, so that you can spot any issues in your own environment. Then, we’ll talk about how to prevent these issues in the first place. The foundation of disaster recovery is having a verified backup in place, so the knowledge you’ll gain from this session could help to save your business.
Speaker(s):
- Grant Fritchey
Track and Room: DBA I - N/A
Title: Extended Properties and how to automate DB Documenting process.
Abstract: Do you know what Extended Properties are? Do you use Extended Properties for your database objects? Do you know how to simplify the process of setting Extended Properties for automated Documenting of your Database? If any of your answers is “NO” then you have to attend this session.
Speaker(s):
- Slava Murygin
Track and Room: DBA II - N/A
Title: Database Design Contentious Issues
Abstract: A highly interactive and popular session where attendees evaluate the options and best practices of common and advanced design issues, such as: * Natural vs. Surrogate keys * NULL/NOTNULL * Classwords and other Naming Standards * Varchar Minimums *the CLOUD * Who Calls the Shots and Who Does What? …and others. Bring your votes, your debates, and your opinions.
Speaker(s):
- Karen Lopez
Track and Room: DBA II - N/A
Title: ETL not ELT! Common mistakes and misconceptions about SSIS
Abstract: Explore some of the mistakes and misconceptions DBAs tend to have about SSIS. Also look at the performance and scalability of ETL vs ELT with real world examples and sample code.
Speaker(s):
- Paul Rizza
Track and Room: BI II - N/A
Title: The Spy Who Loathed Me - An Intro to SQL Security
Abstract: You have lots of data you have painstakingly collected over the years. How do you ensure that data is protected from hackers, spies and other ne’er-do-wells? Understanding the vast array of security features available in SQL Server is the first step in helping you determine what actions you need to take now to protect your data.
Speaker(s):
- Chris Bell
Track and Room: DBA I - N/A
Title: Indexing Fundamentals
Abstract: A solid understanding of clustered and nonclustered indexes and a thorough look at their costs and benefits. This will include looking in execution plans to see how indexes are used, going through the buffer cache to see the memory costs and benefits, and a complete look at how they fit into a strategy to improve page life expectancy and server performance.
Speaker(s):
- Steve Hood
Track and Room: DBA II - N/A
Title: Getting Started with Hekaton (In-Memory OLTP)
Abstract: So you’ve heard of Hekaton (In-Memory OLTP) but you aren’t sure where to start or if it’s for you or not. Maybe you’ve heard or read some information and not sure what’s true or not. There’s a number of misconceptions out there about Hekaton. By the end of this session you’ll have a better understanding of what Hekaton is and how it may be able to help you. We’ll discuss the basics of Hekaton and more as well as walking through some demos to show you how to use Hekaton and what it can do as well as help you get started diving into Hekaton on your own.
Speaker(s):
- Brian Davis
Track and Room: SQL 2014 - N/A
Title: Put Your Data on the Map
Abstract: Columbus demonstrated the world was not flat. Our Address table suggests events occurred at a particular location. SQL Server supports geospatial data. Reporting Services provides map galleries. Come see how we leverage those knowns to present our data in a geographical way.
Speaker(s):
- Mark Hudson
Track and Room: BI II - N/A
Title: Introducing Power BI
Abstract: Microsoft has brought business intelligence to the cloud. What does this mean and how does this work? In this session, we’ll review the BI components available in the cloud BI stack. We’ll also compare and contrast functionality of the cloud BI tools with on-premises tools. After attending this session, you’ll have a better understanding of what’s possible and whether it’s time to launch your BI-in-the-cloud solution.
Speaker(s):
- Stacia Varga
Track and Room: BI I - N/A
Title: Table Vars Temp Tables - What you NEED to Know!
Abstract: Almost every SQL Developer is familiar with Table Variables and Temporary Tables. While each of these objects represent temporary storage, there are also substantial differences between them. Understanding the differences between Table Variables and Temporary Tables, and the ramifications that those differences cause, is essential to being able to properly select the appropriate object for use in your development tasks. In this code filled session, we’ll discover the differences and similarities of Temporary Tables and Table Variables, dispel some widespread myths about each, and answer the most important questions of them all, “When do I use one or the other and what are the various impacts of doing so?”
Speaker(s):
- Wayne Sheffield
Track and Room: DBA I - N/A
Title: An Introduction to SQLCLR
Abstract: This talk will cover writing stored procedures and user defined functions with SQLCLR. Basic familarity with T-SQL, C# and Visual Studio is presumed for the audience.
During this talk we will demonstrate the following with SQLCLR
- A Better RAISERROR()
- Reading and writing JSON and CSV formats
- Reading and writing XLSX files without ad hoc queries
We will also discuss the administrative and security concerns of SQLCLR, and how to customize Visual Studio’s behavior during the deploy process.
Speaker(s):
- Justin Dearing
Track and Room: Misc - N/A
Title: In-Memory Columnstore Indexes–Make Your Data Warehouse Fly
Abstract: Columnstore indexes were introduced in SQL Server 2012, along with a new type of query processing “batch mode”. In SQL 2014 they get even better–we can use a Columnstore index as a clustered index and update it. In this session we will explore the basics and beyond of Columnstore indexes and how they can help your warehouse performance. We will also examine their impact to insert and update performance, and the best use cases for implementation.
Speaker(s):
- Joseph D’Antoni
Track and Room: SQL 2014 - N/A
Title: High Availability with Windows Server 2012 R2 and SQL Server 2014
Abstract: This lecture takes a close look at the new features of Windows Server 2012 R2 clustering and how it affects your SQL Server availability. In addition, the new availability features of SQL Server 2014 will be reviewed. This session is geared for those new to Windows Server clustering and SQL Server AlwaysOn but will also be beneficial to those with experience looking to learn about the new high availability features in both Windows Server 2012 R2 and SQL Server 2014.
Speaker(s):
- David Bermingham
Track and Room: SQL 2014 - N/A
Title: Designing Formatting Reports
Abstract: You spent 45 minutes making your first report, but now you want more. Of course you do; everyone wants to make things pretty. Using SSRS 2012 we will look into rendering types considerations, conditional formatting, properties you can’t live without, and why standards are good. Full of samples and demos, you can’t miss this one.
Speaker(s):
- Tamera Clark
Track and Room: BI I - N/A
Title: Hybrid Solutions: The Future of SQL Server Disaster Recovery
Abstract: The cloud is a polarizing buzzword in IT, especially for DBAs. The reality is that all of us will be affected by it over the next few years in one way or another much like we have been by virtualization. One of the best uses for the cloud is creating disaster recovery easier than we have been able to do in the past. This session will discuss the cloud from a SQL Server DBA perspective and how things like hybrid on premise/cloud solutions can be architected today to bring resiliency to current solutions with features like availability groups in SQL Server 2012 and 2014.
Speaker(s):
- Allan Hirt
Track and Room: SQL 2014 - N/A
Title: Securing a Multi-Database Application
Abstract: It is difficult enough to implement database security when dealing with only a single database. If multiple databases are involved, the task of providing a security model that follows industry best practices seems insurmountable.
In this session, we will do a quick review of access security best practices and then dive into the four different methods a DBA can use to tighten cross database access security. For each one we will walk through a demo and talk about how to implement it in your own environment. We will close the session with a discussion about the advantages and disadvantages of the four methods.
Speaker(s):
- Sebastian Meine
Track and Room: DBA II - N/A
Title: The Business Intelligence Management Data Mart
Abstract: Once you’ve built you’re Business Intelligence ecosystem, you want to ensure that everything is running smoothly. SSIS packages should be timely, analysis services databases should be logging their usage, and reports should be monitored for improvement where, and when, possible. In this session, we’ll start out by discussing why a management data mart is a good thing, and why you need this tool in your business intelligence environment to properly monitor and manage usage. Later, we’ll discuss how to report off of this new data mart and the best way to deliver this report to management or your DBA for some much needed insight.
Speaker(s):
- Chris Schmidt
Track and Room: Professional Development - N/A
Title: Optimizing Bulk Insert Operations
Abstract: Why is the ETL slow? How come this simple insert takes so long? What is minimal logging and how can this be achieved? This session will explore how to improve the performance of bulk insert operations with consideration to database settings, indexes, constraints and trace flag 610. We will compare performance between different methods of bulk insert and discuss how each can be tuned for better performance.
Speaker(s):
- Mark Wojciechowicz
Track and Room: BI I - N/A
Title: Your SQL Server Environment–Fair or Foul?
Abstract: Determine what’s in play and what’s not.
This presentation will focus on steps you can take to determine the performance of your SQL Server and where you may need to spend some time optimizing. We will review tools and scripts that are available from Windows Server and the SQL community so you won’t have to go and ask your boss to buy something.
Speaker(s):
- Carlos L Chacon
Track and Room: Misc - N/A
Title: Bulk Insert, Temp Tables Computed Columns, T-SQL Techniques
Abstract: Bulk Insert, friend or foe? Temp Tables, evil in code or divine inspiration? Computed Columns, useless performance sucking waste of time or silver bullet solution? Do you use any of these, love them, hate them, never tried or even heard of these techniques? Learn the good the bad and the ugly of using the Bulk Insert, Temp Tables and Computed Columns in T-SQL. They are powerful tools when used properly. When used together they can make for robust high performance ETL solutions
Speaker(s):
- Joshua Lynn
Track and Room: BI II - N/A
Title: Parsing T-SQL using the TransactSql.ScriptDom library (C#)
Abstract: T-SQL is a very complicated language to parse, so it can be intimidating to get started. We’ll go over basic concepts of what a lexer/parser is and what to expect from it. Then, using the TransactSql.ScriptDom library in the SQL Server SDK, we’ll do some examples to get our feet wet.
Speaker(s):
- Dominic Falso
Track and Room: Professional Development - N/A
Speakers
This is a list of speakers from the XML Guidebook records. The details and URLs were valid at the time of the event.
David Bermingham
Twitter: - https://twitter.com/daveberm
LinkedIn: David Bermingham
Contact: http://clusteringformeremortals.com/
David Bermingham is recognized within the community as a high availability expert and has been honored by his peers by being elected to be a MVP in Clustering since 2010 and most recently has been recognized as a Cloud and Datacenter MVP. David’s work as technical evangelist at SIOS has him focused on evangelizing Microsoft high availability and disaster recovery solutions for both on premise and cloud deployments. He lives in New Jersey with his wife and three kids where he a school board member, scout leader and musical director of an 8-piece jazz band, M-Town.
Josh Fennessy
Twitter: - @joshuafennessy
LinkedIn: Josh Fennessy
Contact: http://www.joshuafennessy.com
Josh Fennessy, Solution Architect at BlueGranite, has been building solutions with the SQL Server BI stack for 8 years. He is a Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert in Business Intelligence. Josh#39;s passions include manipulating data in novel ways to open analytic possibilities not before possible.
Josh is active in the SQL Server and Open Source communities. Beyond relational and OLAP data projects, Josh is also involved in projects using cluster computing platforms such as Hadoop.
Karen Lopez
Twitter: - @datachick
LinkedIn: Karen Lopez
Contact: http://datamodel.com
Karen Lopez is a Sr. Project Manager and Architect for InfoAdvisors. A frequent speaker at conferences and local user groups, she has 20+ years of experience in project and data management on large, multi-project programs. Karen is a chronic volunteer, a Data Platform MVP, and an active advocate for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and data quality.
Karen’s presentations are known for their lively and interactive approach to learning. Her motto: “Love Your Data!”
Timothy McAliley
Twitter: - sysframeworks
LinkedIn: Timothy McAliley
I am currently a Microsoft Cloud Solutions Architect in the Washington, DC area. Previously, I was a Microsoft Technology Solutions Professional (TSP), a Microsoft Account Technology Strategist and a SQL Server Premier Field Engineer. Prior to Microsoft, I was a Technical Trainer and DBA in the Enterprise Security Group at Symantec . I have been in IT for over 20 years. My particular interests are IT operations, IT auditing, IT audit frameworks, IT service management (ITSM), ITIL, information security, project management, and database/application tier high availability solutions. I also co-run the Northern Virginia SQL Server User Group ( @novasl) and also co-run the Azure Datafest events.
Robert Pearl
Twitter: - @PearlKnows
LinkedIn: Robert Pearl
Contact: http://www.sqlservercentral.com/blogs/pearlknows/
Robert Pearl is a 5-year SQL Server MVP and creator of the award-winning database and monitoring alert system, SQLCentric. Author of the HealthySQL - Comprehensive Guide to Healthy SQL Server Performance. He’s the founder of Pearl Knowledge Solutions. As a SQL Server community evangelist, he covers local SQL Server events in the New York City area and maintains the Pearl Knows blog. Voted TOP BLOGGER in 2011.
Tamera Clark
Twitter: - https://twitter.com/tameraclark
LinkedIn: Tamera Clark
Contact: http://tameraclark.com
Tamera Clark has been involved in the IT industry for greater than ten years, with experiences ranging from systems analysis/engineering to SQL Server and SSRS administration/development. She is an active member of the SQL Server community, participating in the Women in Technology Virtual Chapter, Co-leading the Nashville BI Chapter, assisting the Nashville PASS Chapter and serving as a Regional Mentor. Tamera is also the event chair of SQLSaturday Nashville.
Tim Corey
Twitter: - @IAmTimCorey
LinkedIn: Tim Corey
Contact: http://www.epicross.com
Tim is a Microsoft MVP whose goal is to make learning software development easier. If you are struggling with learning C#, SQL, or the related technologies, he wants to help.
Mark Hudson
Twitter: - HMarkHudson
Mark Hudson is an MCITP with many years of experience in business intelligence and data analysis. He has developed data solutions using numerous platform tools including multiple SQL Server versions. He is a data architect and developer with CapTech (www.captechconsulting.com) and served as a leader of the Richmond SQL Server User Group (www.richmondsql.org).
John Miner
Twitter: - https://twitter.com/JohnMiner3
LinkedIn: John Miner
Contact: https://www.mssqltips.com/sqlserverauthor/154/john-miner/
John Miner is currently a Data Architect at BlueMetal advising corporations on how to solve their business needs with data platform solutions.
He has over twenty five years of data processing experience, and his architecture expertise encompasses all phases of the software project life cycle, including design, development, implementation, and maintenance of systems.
He has an undergraduate and graduate degrees in Computer Science from the University of Rhode Island. Other credentials include an up to date MCSE certificate and currently taking the Data Science program from EDX.
Before joining BlueMetal, John won the Data Platform MVP award in 2014 and 2015 for his outstanding contributions to the SQL Server community.
Allan Hirt
Twitter: - SQLHA
LinkedIn: Allan Hirt
Contact: http://www.sqlha.com/blog
SQLHA, LLC founder, consultant, trainer, author, and business continuity, infrastructure, and virtualization expert Allan Hirt has been working with SQL Server since 1992 when it was still a Sybase product. He has also been clustering in Windows Server since the late 1990s when it was known as Wolfpack. Currently a dual Microsoft MVP (Data Platform; Cloud and Datacenter Management) as well as a VMware vExpert, Allan works with all sizes of customers, no matter if they are on premises or in the public cloud. He also delivers training and speaks at events over the world.
Grant Fritchey
Twitter: - @gfritchey
LinkedIn: Grant Fritchey
Contact: http://scarydba.com
Grant Fritchey is a Data Platform MVP with over 20 years’ experience in IT, including time spent in support and development. He has worked with SQL Server since 6.0 back in 1995. He has also developed in VB, VB.NET, C#, and Java. Grant has written books for Apress and Simple-Talk. Grant presents at conferences and user groups, large and small, all over the world. He joined Redgate Software as a product evangelist in January 2011.
Carlos L Chacon
Twitter: - @CarlosLChacon
LinkedIn: Carlos L Chacon
Contact: http://sqldatapartners.com/blog
Carlos Chacon is the managing partner of SQL Data Partners LLC and co-host of the popular SQL Data Partners Podcast. While getting his start as a typical accidental DBA, Carlos has sat on Microsoft exam review panels, served as regional mentor and chapter leader. He enjoys traveling and has been to four continents, speaks Spanish and can eat his weight in raspberries (not yet proven). He and his family live in Richmond, Virginia.
Saska Cvetkovic
Contact: http://www.apexsql.com
Millie Petrovic is a Technical Evangelist at ApexSQL. She has been working in product support and has written articles for articles for ApexSQL Solution center and SQL Shack, as well as ApexSQL product documentation. Her favorite topics are SQL Server disaster recovery, SQL Server transaction log reading, SQL Server performance monitoring and troubleshooting. Ven Zivkovic is a Sales Engineer at ApexSQL. He has over 9 years of experience in various IT related fields.
Chris Schmidt
Twitter: - @sqlbischmidt
LinkedIn: Chris Schmidt
Contact: http://intelligentsql.wordpress.com/
Chris Schmidt is a data architect with Centric Consulting and has experience designing business intelligence solutions for a wide variety of companies in multiple industries. He is very passionate about the entire Microsoft BI stack, with a special emphasis on SSIS and SSAS.
Sebastian Meine
Twitter: - @sqlity
LinkedIn: Sebastian Meine
Contact: http://sqlity.net/en/blog/
Sebastian Meine, Ph.D. is the SQL Stylist behind sqlity.net llc. In 2010 he founded sqlity.net to fully engage in his passion for SQL Server. Armed with a Ph.D. in Computer Science and years of experience in architecting DBs for a global Fortune 50 company, Sebastian now provides training and consulting services for his clients, specializing in SQL Server Security, Test Driven Development and Performance. Sebastian is an experienced public speaker, published author, president of the Philly PASS Chapter, PASS Regional Mentor and coauthor lead developer of tSQLt.
Dan Clark
LinkedIn: Dan Clark
Contact: http://drclarkblog.wordpress.com/
Dan Clark is a senior data analytics consultant. He is focused on all things data analytics and training others how to get value from their data. Dan has published several books and numerous articles on .NET programming and data analytics. He is a regular speaker at various developer and database conferences and user group meetings and enjoys interacting with the Microsoft developer and database communities. His latest book Beginning Power BI published by Apress is a will get you up and running with self-service data analytics on the Power BI platform in no time.
Wayne Sheffield
Twitter: - @DBAWayne
LinkedIn: Wayne Sheffield
Contact: http://blog.waynesheffield.com/wayne
Wayne Sheffield, a Microsoft Certified Master in SQL Server and Microsoft Most Valuable Professional, started working with xBase databases in the late 80’s. With over 25 years in IT, he has worked with SQL Server (since 6.5 in the late 90’s) in various dev/admin roles, with an emphasis in performance tuning. He is the author of several articles at www.sqlservercentral.com, a co-author of “SQL Server T-SQL Recipes”, and enjoys sharing his knowledge by presenting at SQL events worldwide and blogging at http://blog.waynesheffield.com/wayne
Chris Bell
Twitter: - @cbelldba
LinkedIn: Chris Bell
Contact: https://www.wateroxconsulting.com/
Chris Bell offers a unique view of how we live and work with data, both now and as we head into the future. Having braved many roles, lifecycles, and battles in the IT world, he has honed his DBA (Database Administration or Do ‘Bout Anything) skills in Information Systems and development, focusing on SQL Server. Currently, he serves as the lead DBA at The Motley Fool. You can keep up with Chris’ thoughts and technical community activities at WaterOxConsulting.com.
Dominic Falso
Dominic is the Data Architect with The Reinvestment Fund in Center City Philadelphia. He has studied OO programming since 1995 and database software since 1999 (SQL Server since 2001). He currently works with SQL Server 2017 and .NET C#, doing data analysis and manipulation, as well as writing code management software.
Steve Hood
Twitter: - @SteveHoodSQL
LinkedIn: Steve Hood
Contact: http://simplesqlserver.com
I#39;m a DBA who has gone through most of my career with few people to learn and unsure of where to find great help until I found a real mentor. When I started at a company with a great, knowledgeable manager and learned to find others speaking about SQL Server online my skills boomed. This is especially true in my most passionate area, SQL Server performance.
Knowing that my knowledge came from others, I now have a second passion of sharing my knowledge with others.
Joseph D’Antoni
Twitter: - jdanton
LinkedIn: Joseph D’Antoni
Contact: http://joeydantoni.com
Joseph D’Antoni is a Senior Consultant and Microsoft Data Platform MVP with over 20 years of experience working in both Fortune 500 and smaller firms. He is a Principal Consultant for Denny Cherry Associates and lives in Malvern, PA. He is a frequent speaker at major tech events like Microsoft Ignite, PASS Summit, and Enterprise Data World. He blogs about all topics technology at joeydantoni.com. He believes that no single platform is the answer to all technology problems. Joseph holds a BS in Computer Information Systems from Louisiana Tech University and an MBA from North Carolina State University, and is the co-author of the Microsoft book “Introducing SQL Server 2016”.
Konstantin Melamud
Twitter: - @kmelamud
Konstantin has over 15 years of SQL Server experience and demonstrates his expertise and commitment to helping SQL Server DBAs succeed through his position as Director of Service Delivery at RDX. In his role, Konstantin is responsible for designing and implementing RDX’s service delivery strategies, including those for SQL Server. Since joining RDX in 2009, Konstantin has proven to be a strong leader and expert in SQL Server database administration, architecture, performance tuning, and business intelligence. He is also a very active member of the SQL Server community and frequently presents at SQLSaturdays and user groups throughout the year. In addition, Konstantin presented during 24 Hours of PASS and at the PASS Summits.
Jeff Burke
Twitter: - @JayRyeBee
LinkedIn: Jeff Burke
Business intelligence consultant with experience architecting, designing, developing and project managing enterprise scale business intelligence solutions. Full life cycle project experience and business understanding of applications in finance, sales, supply chain, procurement, logistics, point of sale, retail and insurance.
Ashton Hobbs
Twitter: - @achobbs
Ashton has been working with SQL Server since SQL Server 6.5 and earlier versions of Sybase. Ashton is also the original creator and developer of ApexSQL Edit, a Gold Award winner from SQL Magazine. Ashton is currently consulting and speaking in addition to working on new SQL Server based products and tools.
Slava Murygin
Twitter: - SlavaSQL
LinkedIn: Slava Murygin
Contact: http://slavasql.blogspot.com/
Started working with SQL Server 7.0 as DBA and Developer. Since then went through all SQL Server versions, migrations and multiple companies of different sizes and industries. Currently working as a contractor with all aspects of SQL Server, including, but not limited to: troubleshooting performance, designing/developing: databases, systems, processes, data warehouses, cubes, reports, ETLs; Refactoring old code; Migrating data from other systems to SQL Server; Securing the data on enterprise level.
Mark Wojciechowicz
Twitter: - @MarkW_BI
LinkedIn: Mark Wojciechowicz
Mark Wojciechowicz is a Business Intelligence Solutions Architect with a passion for process improvement. He has spoken to the Philly user group in the past about continuous integration, continuous delivery, SSDT, and a myriad of other business intelligence related topics.
Jason Brimhall
Twitter: - sqlrnnr
LinkedIn: Jason Brimhall
Contact: http://jasonbrimhall.info
Jason Brimhall has more than 20 years of experience and has worked with SQL Server 6.5 through SQL Server 2019. He has experience in performance tuning, high transaction environments, and large environments. He is currently a consultant specializing in performance tuning, server analysis, and problem resolution. Jason is a Microsoft Certified Master (MCM) and a Data Platform MVP.
Paul Rizza
Twitter: - @PaulRizzaSQL
LinkedIn: Paul Rizza
Contact: http://blogs.msdn.com/b/paulrizza/
Paul Rizza is a Senior Consultant at Microsoft Consulting Services (MCS), Lead on the MCS SQL Hiring Team, and has over 25 years’ experience consulting, teaching and developing on SQL Server platforms. Paul’s expertise includes ETLs, Dimensional modeling, architecting highly available SQL environments and performance tuning. Paul has an Undergraduate degree from UMBC and a Master’s degree both in Computer Science with a concentration in Database Theory from Johns Hopkins University.
Ravi Kumar
Twitter: - @sqlravi
I have over 12 years of experience working with SQL Server and Business Intelligence Technology. My current focus is cloud technologies: Power BI, Azure Analysis Services, Azure SQL Data Warehouse, Azure Data Factory. As a PFE at Microsoft, I regularly deliver 2 - 4 day training workshops.
Mark Vaillancourt
Twitter: - @markvsql
LinkedIn: Mark Vaillancourt
Contact: http://markvsql.com
Mark is a Data Solutions Architect for Microsoft, helping organizations design data solutions in Azure. He has been working with Microsoft data technologies since 2007. Before joining Microsoft, he was a Business Intelligence consultant and two-time Microsoft Data Platform MVP. With a background in Theater and Improvised Comedy, Mark makes sure that his presentations are both informative and fun.
Joseph D’Antoni
Twitter: - jdanton
LinkedIn: Joseph D’Antoni
Contact: http://joeydantoni.com
Joseph D’Antoni is a Senior Consultant and Microsoft Data Platform MVP with over 20 years of experience working in both Fortune 500 and smaller firms. He is a Principal Consultant for Denny Cherry Associates and lives in Malvern, PA. He is a frequent speaker at major tech events like Microsoft Ignite, PASS Summit, and Enterprise Data World. He blogs about all topics technology at joeydantoni.com. He believes that no single platform is the answer to all technology problems. Joseph holds a BS in Computer Information Systems from Louisiana Tech University and an MBA from North Carolina State University, and is the co-author of the Microsoft book “Introducing SQL Server 2016”.
Steve Simon
Twitter: - SQLServerBoffin
LinkedIn: Steve Simon
Contact: http://www.sqlservercentral.com/blogs/simon_says/
Steve Simon is a Database Solutions Architect with Business Knowledge Services Inc. He has been involved with database design and analysis for over 35 years. Steve has presented papers at numerous PASS Summits and PASS SQL Rallies. He is also regular presenter on the SQLSaturday circuit and he is a contributor on SQLShack.com
Joshua Lynn
Contact: http://www.pocketjoshua.com/sql
Joshua Lynn started programming databases when he was 14. Professionally, he has been in the IT industry since 1991 specializing in database design, ETL, and change detection. His experience with SQL server goes back to version 6.5 where he thought triggers were neat. Currently, he is still working on doing useful things with SQL server and believes CTEs have enhanced his professional life. In his spare time, he mentors high school students in building robots. He is also an advocate for Deadlock victims’ rights.
Stacia Varga
Twitter: - @StaciaV
LinkedIn: Stacia Varga
Contact: http://blog.datainspirations.com
Stacia Varga is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP and SSAS Maestro with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences. A consultant, educator, author, and principal of Data Inspirations, her career spans more than 30 years, with a focus on improving business practices through technology.
Since 2000, Stacia has provided consulting and education services for Microsoft’s Business Intelligence technologies. As Stacia Misner, she also authored several books covering the Microsoft BI stack.
Brandon Leach
Twitter: - SQLServerNerd
LinkedIn: Brandon Leach
A Microsoft Data Platform MVP, Brandon manages the DB Operations team for financial company x. With a data estate of several petabytes, he puts a high focus on performance tuning and automation. He is a frequent speaker at events like conferences and user groups.
Justin Dearing
Twitter: - zippy1981
LinkedIn: Justin Dearing
Contact: http://www.justaprogrammer.net
Justin Dearing has been working in IT in 2002. He started as a night shift AS/400 operator and rose through the ranks at a series of companies. He currently works as a developer in the capital markets industry.
Justin has served in both the development and production side of the house on Windows, Unix and Midrange Platforms. His database experience includes MongoDB, MySQL, Postgres and Microsoft SQL server. These days he programs in C#, PowerShell and PHP.
Brian Davis
Twitter: - @Brian78
LinkedIn: Brian Davis
Contact: http://blogs.sqlsentry.com
Brian Davis is a Product Integration Engineer at SentryOne and has over 15 years in the IT field in multiple areas including software development, support, user training, and as a DBA. He has been working with SQL Server since 2003 and has hands-on experience with SQL Server 2000 through 2016. Brian is also a PASS Regional Mentor and an active member and leader of the Ohio North SQL Server User Group.
Kerry Tyler
Twitter: - AirborneGeek
LinkedIn: Kerry Tyler
Contact: http://airbornegeek.com
Kerry Tyler is a SQL Server, Business Intelligence, and Azure consultant. His initial IT experience was in network engineering and Windows system administration before moving into the data realm. This infrastructure background builds a firm foundation for performance tuning and cloud infrastructure design and implementation. Kerry has full-time DBA experience in SQL Server since version 2000 and business intelligence architecture since SQL Server 2005. In addition to consulting work, he delivers presentations and training on SQL Server administration, business intelligence, and Azure data and infrastructure components.
Leonard Lobel
Twitter: - @lennilobel
LinkedIn: Leonard Lobel
Contact: http://lennilobel.wordpress.com
Leonard Lobel (Microsoft MVP, Data Platform) is CTO and co-founder of Sleek Technologies, Inc., a New York-based development shop with an early adopter philosophy toward new technologies. He is also a principal consultant at Tallan, Inc., a Microsoft National Systems Integrator and Gold Competency Partner.
Programming since 1979, Lenni specializes in Microsoft-based solutions, with experience that spans a variety of business domains, including publishing, financial, wholesale/retail, health care, and e-commerce. Lenni has served as chief architect and lead developer for various organizations, ranging from small shops to high-profile clients. He is also a consultant, trainer, and frequent speaker at local usergroup meetings, VSLive, SQL PASS, and other industry conferences.
Lenni has also authored several MS Press books and Pluralsight courses on SQL Server programming.
Ayman El-Ghazali
Twitter: - thesqlpro
LinkedIn: Ayman El-Ghazali
Contact: http://www.thesqlpro.com
Ayman is a passionate SQL Server DBA, Developer, and BI Developer. His passion for technology started when he was a young boy playing DOS games on his father’s computer. He can be reached via his blog or twitter handle and is looking forward to connecting with other SQL Geeks.
Warner Chaves
Twitter: - @warchav
LinkedIn: Warner Chaves
Contact: http://sqlturbo.com
Warner is a SQL Server MCM, Data Platform MVP and Principal Consultant at Pythian, a global Canada-based company specialized in DBA services. A brief stint in .NET programming led to his early DBA formation working for enterprise customers in Hewlett-Packard ITO organization. From there he transitioned to his current position at Pythian, building and managing data solutions in many industry verticals while leading a highly talented team of Data Platform consultants.
Edward Pollack
Twitter: - EdwardPollack
LinkedIn: Edward Pollack
Contact: https://www.sqlshack.com/author/edward-pollack/
Ed Pollack has over 20 years of experience in database and systems administration, which has developed his passion for performance optimization, database design, and making things go faster. He has spoken at many SQLSaturdays, 24 Hours of PASS, and PASS Summit. This led him to organize SQLSaturday Albany, which has become an annual event for New York’s Capital Region. Sharing these experiences with the community is a top priority, and encouraging everyone to take the leap into public speaking and engaging others, a passion. In his free time, Ed enjoys video games, traveling, cooking exceptionally spicy foods, and hanging out with his amazing wife and sons.
Sponsors
The following is a list of sponsors that helped fund the event: