Event Location:
St. Thomas Graduate Campus - Schulze Hall
1000 Lasalle Ave
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Abstract:
How often do you review your SQL Servers for basic security, maintenance, and performance issues? Many of the servers I "inherit" as a managed services provider have quite a few gaping holes. It is not unusual to find databases that are never backed up, servers with constant login failures (is it an attack or a bad connection string?), and servers that need more RAM/CPU/etc. (or sometimes that even have too much!) Come learn how to use freely available tools from multiple layers of the SQL Server stack to check your servers for basic issues like missing backups and CheckDB as well as for more advanced issues like page life expectancy problems and improper indexing. If you are responsible in any way for a Microsoft SQL Server (DBA, Windows Admin, even a Developer) you will see value in this session!
Speaker(s): Andy Galbraith,
Abstract:
In this session we will explore the latest release of SQL Server and explore the new features related to Business Intelligence including Reporting Services, Integration Services, Analysis Services, and even R in SQL Server. We will take a look at the new capabilities provides with the new Web Portal in Reporting Services including KPIs, mobile reports, and even Power BI. You will see what has changes have been done with Integration Services and Analysis Services. Lots to discuss and cover, so get ready for some great content and some cool demos!
Speaker(s): Dan English,
Abstract:
Battle scars are proof of the struggles endured and won. Find out about one particular battle in porting a SQL Server application to Netezza. In this session, we’ll review Big Data platform options and the differences between them. We’ll see how Massively Parallel Processor (MPP) systems (like Netezza) are different from Symmetric Multi-Processor (SMP) systems (like SQL Server) and witness the lessons learned in the struggle.
Speaker(s): Aaron Cutshall,
Abstract:
In this session, Ross McNeely will discuss the need for a strong approach towards Information Management, and which tools will help you deliver solutions. The focus of the presentation will be on leveraging SQL Server 2016, and Azure data platforms within an Information Management Framework. Major components of the framework include Information Strategy, Information Asset Management, Enterprise Data Management, and Business Intelligence. Information Strategy will include Governance, and how to define strategies for data, query, and business intelligence platforms. Information Asset Management will cover data linage, and security. Enterprise Data Management will dive into Data Architecture. Business Intelligence will include designing for predictive, prescriptive, and performance analytics.
Speaker(s): Ross McNeely,
Abstract:
This session with provide a high level overview of what SQL Server Analysis Services is and what you need to know to get started. It will cover the fundamentals of Dimensions, Measures, how to view the data as well as the role of SSAS in the enterprise. The sessions with also provide a few scenarios demonstrating the benefits of using SSAS.
Speaker(s): Dave Bland,
Abstract:
Everyone is talking about Power BI. People are starting to use and interact with Power BI. That is a good thing, Power BI is fun! As an organization however, what do I do now and how do I handle a periodically changing beast? Here is what to consider...
Speaker(s): George Bryant,
Abstract:
Employee/manager relationships, family trees, and the like are all hierarchical data. In this session, we'll look at a common way to represent such relationships, common methods of querying them, and how we can leverage the hierarchyid datatype to make queries go a lot easier and faster!
Speaker(s): Ben Thul,
Abstract:
Many database developers today do not have a Computer Science degree and may also have begun their career developing software using procedural programming languages (Java, C#, etc.). As a result, they may not have the background needed to conceptualize solutions in terms of sets of data and therefore may not be able to develop efficient set-based queries. In this session, we will review the basics of set theory and how it applies to database development to enable you to turn cursors, loops, and other procedural programming practices into efficient set-based operations that make the most use of a relational database engine.
Speaker(s): Aaron Cutshall,
Abstract:
This session is designed to be useful to two different audiences: 1.Those implementing Ola Hallengren’s Maintenance Solution for the first time. (Or don't even know what the Maintenance Solution is!) 2.Those that have been using it for awhile, but might have a hole in their DR plan – what to restore when a resource goes offline. We will do an overview of the maintenance solution to start, then get down and dirty with the guts of the extension. What I am presenting is a custom extension that works out of the box for jobs created using the maintenance solution. The scripts will add an additional job step to all DatabaseBackup jobs which will output a text file that contains the most current restore scripts for each database in the instance. If you don't know what I just described in that last paragraph, you should come to this session and that will be explained as well!
Speaker(s): Jared Zagelbaum,
Abstract:
Virtualizing your business-critical SQL Servers should not imply that they will run slower than if they were physical. When properly architected and managed, virtual SQL Servers should be equally as fast as their physical counterparts, if not faster. However, if not properly constructed, silent and seemingly random performance killers can strike and significantly hurt your database performance. This session is packed with many tips and tricks gained from years of experience for getting the most performance from your virtual SQL Servers. The major roadblocks to performance will be discussed and the knowledge gained will help you work with your infrastructure engineers so you can optimize the system stack for performance. Tools, techniques, and processes will be demonstrated to help you measure and validate the system performance of the key components underneath your data.
Speaker(s): David Klee,
Abstract:
How many times has a lack of budget for hardware, training, or expert assistance caused problems for you in designing, implementing, and maintaining a great SQL Server environment? Come to this session to learn effective ways to secure the budget you need instead of being consistently required to do more with less, or worse – nothing. The good news is that there are several simple and practical things you can do to vastly improve your ability to get the budget you need when you need it. You will hear how to think like an executive from someone who was one for many years so you can begin to influence decisions at the right level to get what both you and your SQL Server infrastructure need.
Speaker(s): Maxwell Myrick,
Abstract:
DevOps is the melding of application development, testing, and IT operations. All tasks from infrastructure to coding to testing to transition into production must be automated so that new features and fixes can be continuously delivered. Constraining DevOps is data. Databases and applications have grown enormous and complex. quot;Storage is cheapquot; is a lie. Provisioning a full environment for each developer or tester on each task of each project appears unrealistic, when each might require several terabytes of storage. And so everyone is limited to working in a small handful of shared environments that are refreshed only every few months, and code quality suffers. Data virtualization is the solution. Virtual databases and file-systems only consume space from deltas, so it is possible to provision multiple terabytes for megabytes. Coders and testers have full environments fast in which to develop and test, improving code quality. Learn about the technical details behind this solutio
Speaker(s): Todd Blatti,
Abstract:
You are invited to be a participant on the SQL Server Quiz Show; this interactive session will test your knowledge on many different areas of SQL Server. We will be using an online tool to allow you to submit your answers to questions via mobile device or laptop, but don#39;t worry, total scores are only shown to yourself, so you don#39;t have to worry about competing against others. This session promises to be fast paced and fun and hopefully you will even learn something. This session will also be of value to people who need to interview or be interviewed for SQL Server positions as the questions may be the type of things you might hear in an interview.
Speaker(s): Eric Zierdt,
Abstract:
You#39;ve got knowledge to share. Maybe you like the idea of blogging or presenting, but what really gets your heart pounding is making videos. How do you get your big ideas to the big screen? Making technical videos doesn#39;t have to be hard; you just have to focus on the right details. Topics we#39;ll cover include: The essential steps of planning, shooting, editing, and publishing your video; the best video-making gear to buy for any budget, and how to get the most out of that gear; how to make your video stand out from the rest on platforms like YouTube and Vimeo; how videos have a unique way of connecting you and your material to your audience. You#39;ll hear my insider tips and lessons I#39;ve learned from years of creating technical training videos. You#39;ll learn mistakes that even experienced video creators make, and how to avoid them. We#39;ll also tear down the myths and misconceptions that are holding you back from getting started.
Speaker(s): Doug Lane,
Abstract:
As the tools available for BI and data warehousing continue to improve, it should change the way we ultimately deliver BI solutions. Microsoft#39;s BI solutions help us keep data closer to the source. As data and BI architects, we need to design solutions that can support this model. Consumption Based Architecture is one such architecture. The goal of this architecture is to plan and design solutions that minimize ongoing maintenance and enable users quicker and more complete access to data. Some highlights are how tabular models and PowerPivot support this process and where does MDM for BI fit in. Ready to discuss the quot;death of enterprise data warehousesquot;? Join the conversation in this session.
Speaker(s): Steve Hughes,
Abstract:
ETL development can consume a significant portion of time in Data Warehousing initiatives. It can also be very cumbersome to change ETL patterns across a large number of objects. This session will look at how BIML + metadata can be leverage to significantly reduce ETL development time.
Speaker(s): Dave DuVarney,
Abstract:
Dimensional modeling is one of cornerstones of successful Business Intelligence initiatives. Even with new technologies like PowerPivot and Analysis Services Tabular models, you need to represent your organization’s data in a way that is accessible for end users and IT staff alike. An effective dimensional model will also ensure that your data warehouse or data mart will be responsive and capable of accommodating emerging requirements. In this session, we will dive deeper into the art of dimensional modeling. We will look at how and when to create the different types of fact and dimension tables, Including patterns for enriching dimensional data, creating usable hierarchies for efficient navigation, and tracking historical changes. After attending this session you will be able to confidently assess the quality of your organization’s dimensional model and recommend and implement changes. Bring your toughest quandaries to help make this an interactive and engaging session.
Speaker(s): Jason Horner,
Abstract:
Taking a looking at all the new features of SSAS 2016 Tabular, how to use them effectively and avoid pitfalls. Features include Bi-Directional Cross Filtering, Parallel Partition Processing, Calculated Tables, etc.
Speaker(s): Brian Beswick,
Abstract:
Is your Biml solution starting to remind you of a bowl of tangled spaghetti code? Good! That means you are solving real problems while saving a lot of time. The next step is to make sure that your solution does not grow too complex and confusing - you do not want to waste all that saved time on future maintenance! Attend this session for an overview of Biml best practices and coding techniques. Learn how to centralize and reuse code with include files and the CallBimlScript method. Make your code easier to read and write by utilizing LINQ (Language-Integrated Queries). Share code between files by using Annotations and ObjectTags. And finally, if standard Biml is not enough to solve your problems, you can create your own C# helper classes and extension methods to implement custom logic. Start improving your code today and level up your Biml in no time!
Speaker(s): Cathrine Wilhelmsen,
Abstract:
Interest in the R language is has grown along with the amount of data being accumulated. As Microsoft is now incorporating the R language into SQL Server 2016, the language is going to be a required skill for all data professionals in the near future. The demand for R skills is high as it routinely makes the list of the most in-demand languages to learn. In this class users will get hands on instruction in Microsoft R Open. Students will learn how to create a simple program with graphical output, incorporate R in stored procedures within SQL Server 2016, and how to call an R program within Azure ML. Session Agenda • History and Introduction to the R Language. • Walk through of Microsoft R Open • Class Exercise of writing Hello World in R • When and How to uses R Language Libraries • Class Exercise of R code with Graphical Output • Common uses and best fit for R programs • Develop R program for Data Integration. • Integration of R code into SQL Server 2016 • Adding R to
Speaker(s): Ginger Grant,
Abstract:
The new Mobile Report Publisher provides an efficient and effective tool for creating data visualizations to be consumed on tablets and smartphones. This session will take you through the authoring of mobile visualizations including tips and tricks to create the most effective presentations on a small footprint. We will also explore best practices concerning when to author visualizations with the Mobile Report Publisher and when to utilize other tools in the arsenal.
Speaker(s): Brian Larson,
Abstract:
Having the right indexes supporting your databases is a critical need. But how do you determine what indexes are most effective? Should you have single or multi-column indexes? Should the index be filtered? What are included columns and columnstore indexes and when should they be used? In this session, we explore various ways to implement indexes and provide the performance expected out of your databases.
Speaker(s): Jason Strate,
Abstract:
Azure SQL Database provides fantastic scalability and flexibility for your data tier. You can scale it up with ease when you need more power and scale it down again when load returns to normal. With the pay as you go model, you pay for each database based on performance characteristics. But when you have a scaled out architecture of hundreds, thousands, or tens of thousands of databases, how can you keep costs from spiraling out of control? How can you query across all of those databases? How can you MANAGE so many databases? How can you write your application to make the right decisions about where to put which data? This session will introduce you to four key pieces of this overall story: Elastic Database Pools, Elastic Query, Elastic Database Jobs, and the Elastic Database Tools .Net library. With these tools, you take your Azure SQL Database data tier to the next level of scale and manageability.
Speaker(s): Mark Vaillancourt,
Abstract:
In this demo-rich session, we will delve into using various data sources (SQL Server, Excel, Folder, Enter Data, and more) to Get Data into Power BI Desktop. We will shape and clean that data using the fantastic transformation options available in the Query interface (based on Power Query). We will show how to use M (Power Query Formula Language) to create useful, reusable functions and perform meaningful transformations not supported by the graphical interface. We will discuss the basics of Dimensional Modelling and apply those practices to our Power BI Desktop model. By the end of the session, we will have created a meaningful, useful data model from multiple data sources using the outstanding functionality provided by Power BI Desktop.
Speaker(s): Mark Vaillancourt,
Abstract:
In this session we will give an overview of what Table Partitioning is, how can it be used to move large amounts of data quickly and how can it be used with a data archiving strategy to quickly and easily drop archived data from a table. We will discuss the practical applications of table partitioning using scripts to generate new table partitions, move a partition to another table and discussion on how this can benefit you. In this demo heavy session, attendees will be provided with scripts to get setup quickly so they can begin using the strategies to take control of rapid data archival
Speaker(s): Eric Zierdt,
Abstract:
The world's most powerful virtualization platform, VMware vSphere, contains a number of hidden gems that DBAs can use to make their SQL Servers more highly available and perform better. The demos in this session have been developed to illustrate a few key capabilities of VMware vSphere and VMware NSX that can be used to enhance the overall SQL Server implementation. Features such as vSphere vMotion, vSphere HA, Distributed Resource Scheduler and Fault Tolerance are complimentary to all the features and capabilities of SQL Server and create an unparalleled combination of the world’s top RDBMS and the world’s most complete and effective virtualization proposition. With network virtualization NSX can provide security enhancements unachievable with any other technology and can streamline SQL server deployment automation processes. Please join us for this demonstration of advanced vSphere and NSX feature functionality and an explanation as to how this enhances your SQL Server environment.
Speaker(s): David Klee,
Abstract:
We’ll examine how to leverage big data to extend SQL Server particularly around archive patterns. Demos include moving data into Hadoop for query and batch processing as wells as leveraging Spark for fast batch processing.
Speaker(s): Rowland Gosling,
Abstract:
For years it seemed that the only message SQL Server professionals were hearing was quot;to the Cloud.... you must get to the Cloud!quot;. However, if you work in a highly regulated industry, or one simply averse to change, this likely was not an option for you. The good news is, Microsoft heard your feedback and has been busy incorporating Cloud connectivity, compatibility, and functionality into the box product. Come spend the hour with me and you’ll learn how to leverage the power of the Cloud with your on-premises SQL Server install. We’ll cover backup and restore options with Windows Azure Storage, using Windows Azure VMs for high availability, how to store your data files in Windows Azure Storage, and more. We’ll start with SQL Server 2012 and work our way up to the most recently released bits for SQL Server 2016. You can have the best of both worlds with a SQL Server Hybrid Cloud strategy!
Speaker(s): Paul Timmerman,
Abstract:
You know that execution plans can provide you with vital information to tune a query, but just how does that plan get generated? In this session, we will examine details the query optimization process that are not very well known. We will discuss how SQL Server parses a T-SQL statement then and begins applying rules to make it more efficient. Did you know that SQL Server can be coaxed into outputting hidden structures such as parse trees and memos? We#39;ll do just that, and then take it a step further with a unique visualization tool that I have created. With a better understanding of how SQL Server optimizes T-SQL (and sometimes doesn#39;t do it as well as might be hoped), you can write more efficient SQL statements.
Speaker(s): Brian Hansen,
Abstract:
2016 is the year of All-Flash for primary storage and DELL EMC’s industry leading portfolio of All-Flash arrays unlock the speed, efficiency, and agility that your business stakeholders have been demanding. Whether supporting 1,000 or 10,000,000 IOPS, DELL EMC has a broad portfolio to ensure consistent sub-millisecond response time regardless of workload type. Beyond just production database performance, DELL EMC provides robust database repurposing via our iCDM or Integrated Copy Data Management capabilities. Creating and maintaining test/dev, near real-time analytic, or sandbox environments has never been simpler. Join us and hear how we can address the needs of all of your Microsoft SQL Server instances.
Speaker(s): Sean Barry,
Abstract:
Always Encrypted is a highly-touted new feature of SQL Server 2016 that promises to make encryption simple to use and transparent to applications while still protecting the data both at rest and in motion, even from high-privilege users such as developers and DBAs. Does that sound too good to be true? It isn’t - Always Encrypted is an incredible feature - but like any new technology, it does have some limitations. In this session, you’ll see how to configure Always Encrypted, and we’ll talk about when you should and shouldn’t use it in your environment.
Speaker(s): Ed Leighton-Dick,
Abstract:
We are in a new industrial revolution. Data is the new innovation lever and companies are all seeking new ways to use it to catapult them forward. Incremental growth or improvement are no longer optional. The current needs of the business world are outpacing the technology expertise of most of its technical leadership. Learn how to rethink your own development and get the right capabilities for an amazing future in data! Leave with a roadmap for building out your modern personal development plan.
Speaker(s): Adam Jorgensen,
Abstract:
To get the most from our SSAS Tabular and Power BI models, we must be able to create robust DAX expressions. This requires a solid conceptual understanding of DAX expressions, especially the interaction of aggregates and filters with the Calculate() function. In this session, we will also look at time analytics and hierarchies within DAX expressions. As we explore the ins and outs of DAX expressions, we will call out new features and functionality available in DAX in SQL Server 2016.
Speaker(s): Brian Larson,
Abstract:
A panel of SQL Server experts take on all questions..
Speaker(s): Jim Horn,
Abstract:
What’s Data Factory? Isn’t it just SSIS in the cloud? If you’re an ETL developer or looking for solutions to efficiently integrate your on-prem. data with Azure then you should know what Data Factory is. Over the last 20 years I’ve worked with BCP, DTS, SSIS, and now Data Factory. We’ll talk about when and how to use Data Factory. I’ll demo using Data Factory to pull data from on-prem. sources, transform it, and land it in Azure SQL DB.
Speaker(s): Mike Fulkerson,
Abstract:
With the constant expansion and improvement of Microsoft Azure, there are several data options available - including SQL Server VMs and SQL Database. As a database administrator, what do you need to know to use them effectively? In this session, I'll cover why you want to use SQL Server in Azure, what to know before you choose a service, and how to effectively perform administrative tasks such as backups, restores, and automating tasks.
Speaker(s): Jes Schultz,
Abstract:
Analysis Services Tabular is an in memory analytics engine introduced in SQL Server 2012. It has shown to be a quick and effective way to transform your organization with modern analytics. Join Phillip and learn how easy it is to create a tabular solution and provide valuable insight into your organization's data. This is a demo heavy session and you should be able walk away knowing how to create your own tabular model.
Speaker(s): Phillip Labry,
Abstract:
Setting up a Hadoop cluster can be a long, expensive and frustrating experience. Adding nodes can take days, weeks, or months. What if you could have a Hadoop cluster up and running in 20 mins and could add nodes in minutes? Come to this demo heavy session on provisioning HDInsight and wrangle some data!
Speaker(s): Matt Stenzel,
Abstract:
In SQL Server 2016 Microsoft has include native handling of JSON. What does that mean? What is JSON? Why do I care? Will there be knives and hockey masks? Come to this session and you will learn what JSON is, where and how it is used and why as a DBA you need to know this.
Speaker(s): Jim Dorame,
Abstract:
So you have your availability groups configured and everything reports green. How do you measure SLA compliance? Do you know when replication is delayed? Did you know it failed over last night? This session will answer all these questions and more, and will show you what should you be looking at to ensure no surprises... We will look at the DMVs, extended event sessions, perfmon counters, SQL agent jobs and policies to show what to monitor in your AG and how to setup alerts so you know when to take action.
Speaker(s): Phil Ekins,
Abstract:
SQL Server 2016 is here. Curious what all the hype is about? We#39;ll take a stroll down memory lane to remind us how far we#39;ve come and then explore some of the brand new features. Time travel with Temporal Tables. Watch the gears turn with Live Query Statistics. Go shopping in the Query Store. And impress your developer friends with some freshly minted JSON. Maybe we#39;ll even figure out how to bottle up that new version smell.
Speaker(s): Riley Major,
Abstract:
Data access can be easy to set up in your applications with wizards and ORMs, but sometimes your queries are just not as fast as you think they should be – especially on those tables that are getting bigger and bigger. In this session, we will take a peek under the hood and see how SQL server answers the questions you ask of it. This is an introductory session, but it will be jam-packed with demos and useful tips that you will be able to use to make your applications more responsive.
Speaker(s): Michael DeFehr,
Abstract:
Developers are building Data warehouse solutions to satisfy business requirements. Good developers design solutions with flexibility in mind anticipating requirement’s changes. Great developers deliver solutions that exceed requirements, performance expectations and are long term manageable. In this session we will learn design patterns that allow for delivery of flexible and sustainable solutions through Data Warehouse life cycle avoiding making common architectural mistakes. We will answer What? How? and Why? questions about capturing data, designing ODS, ETL, dimensional Data warehouse, symantec and presentations layers.
Speaker(s): Anton Rozenson,
Abstract:
One of a DBA#39;s primary responsibilities is managing the performance of a SQL Server environment. When performance problems arise, DBAs need to have the correct tools in place to be able to dig in and discover the issues that are occurring. Although it#39;s one of the newer tools in the DBA toolbox, Extended Events is one of the most powerful tools available. In this session, we will discuss performance management responsibilities for DBAs and provide a foundation, through Extended Events, to understand and resolve performance issues.
Speaker(s): Jason Strate,
Abstract:
Everybody loves a free lunch. Come to this session to learn about all the SQL Server freebees.
Speaker(s): Cecil Spivey,
Abstract:
Good managers believe lazy people don#39;t work hard. Great managers realize that a lot of lazy people get their work done, just more efficiently. The right lazy person will find YOU a quicker, easier way to accomplish the same amount. In this session, I will show you several of the tips and tricks I have picked up and use to make my life easier. From keyboard shortcuts to some lesser-known SSMS built-in tools, I hope to make your life easier, and make you a lazy DBA, too!
Speaker(s): Chuck Hieber,
Abstract:
It is quick and easy to build large, complex data models in Power BI (based on Power Pivot). However, building a model that performs well might seem hit or miss unless you are aware of how Power BI manages your data. This session provides design techniques and tips that will have you building your own models to deliver solutions without those nasty performance surprises!
Speaker(s): Rachael Martino,
Abstract:
What is cardinality estimation and how statistics affect your execution plan. In this session we'll cover the mechanics behind cardinality estimation and why it is so critical to query performance. We will also be discussing some of the changes that were made to the estimator in SQL Server 2014 and how you can benefit from these changes.
Speaker(s): Zane Brunette,
This is a list of speakers from the XML Guidebook records. The details and URLs were valid at the time of the event.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daveduvarney
Contact: http://www.talavant.com/blog
Dave DuVarney is President and Co-Founder of Talavant, a business intelligence consulting firm focused on strategy, architecture and implementation services. He has broad technical and functional BI knowledge and has worked with organizations across the full BI life cycle. Dave has helped clients establish their BI program and run Agile development teams. He specializes in implementing SQL Server Analysis Services, Integration Services, and Reporting Services as well as .NET development.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonhorner
Contact: http://blog.jasonhorner.com
Hi, my name is Jason I'm a practice lead at Redapt. I spend most of my day helping clients solve business problems mostly in the Data and Advanced Analytics spaces. Sometimes this involves various and sundry cloud technologies including Azure Data Factory, Azure SQL Data Warehouse, Azure Data Lake Store, Azure Databricks, HDInsight and Azure SQL Database. I'm fluent in several languages including: SQL, C#, Python, and PowerShell. I'm a Microsoft Certified Master of SQL Server (MCM) and have been recognized for my technical excellence and evangelism efforts by Microsoft by being awarded the Most Valuable Professional (MVP) for the last 5+ years. In my off hours I like to snowboard, karaoke, ride roller coasters, and play arcade games
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jesborland
Contact: https://blogs.lessthandot.com/author/jes-borland
Jes Schultz is a Software Engineer with Microsoft who has experience with a wide range of SQL Server features from version 2005 through 2019, and is on the cutting edge with Azure technologies. Since graduating Fox Valley Technical College with an IT-Programmer/Analyst degree, Jes has worked as an SSRS developer, DBA, and consultant. Before joining Microsoft, Jes was a six-time Data Platform MVP, recognized for her community work. Jes tackles every project and problem with tenacity and her enthusiasm is unmatched in the SQL Server community. In her free time, Jes never stops moving, and counts fitness, coffee, cooking, and travel as essentials in life.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/brianlarsonscs
Contact: http://sqlmag.com/author/brian-larson
Brian Larson is Chief Creative Officer/Partner at Superior Consulting Services and has presented at SQL Server Connections, PASS Summit, and the Microsoft BI Conference. As a consultant to Microsoft, Brian contributed to the original code base of Reporting Services. Brian is the author of “Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Reporting Services: 5th Edition” and “Delivering Business Intelligence with SQL Server 2016: 4th Edition”, as well as the forthcoming “Data Analysis with Microsoft Power BI.”
Contact: http://www.tf3604.com
Brian is a database administrator at Children International in Kansas City. He has been working with SQL Server technologies since 1998, including roles in report development, application development and database administration.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rileymajor
Contact: http://www.Scribnasium.com/
Riley Major is an Enterprise Architect based in the Twin Cities, MN metro area who enjoys collaborating with business leaders to design technical solutions and working with technology professionals to build them. He's been programming and designing databases since he was a kid and doing so professionally for 20 years. He has a special place in his heart for T-SQL in SQL Server and loves to share that enthusiasm.
Contact: http://phillip.labry.com
Phillip Labry is a Senior BI Consultant and Trainer with over 20 years experience in SQL Server and over 30 in IT. He has been lucky enough to work on data projects spanning telecom, banking, retail, law enforcement, health care, insurance, financial services and energy sectors. As a national consultant he provides training and builds solutions utilizing the full MS BI stack. He is an active member of the Madison, WI PASS chapter and speaks at events in the USA and Canada.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/markvsql/
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.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonstrate/
Contact: http://www.jasonstrate.com/
Jason Strate is a SQL Server Solutions Architect with Pragmatic Works. He is also a Microsoft SQL Server MVP and MCM. He has over 15 years of experience developing, architecting, and managing data platforms. Jason writes, blogs, and presents on SQL Server.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stenzelmatt
Matt Stenzel is a Data Platform Technical Specialist at Microsoft. He has been using Microsoft tools for over 10 years. He is a Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate and has held positions as a Developer, DBA and Architect with several Fortune 500 companies before joining Microsoft. He now works with customers across the North Central District to implement data platform solutions that will provide business value. Matt is passionate about helping businesses turn data into insights and realizing the value of their data. He has helped numerous customers realize value from on-prem and cloud solutions dealing with structured and unstructured data using the Microsoft Data Platform and Azure.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredzagelbaum?
Contact: https://jaredzagelbaum.wordpress.com
With over 10 years of experience using the Microsoft Data Platform suite, Jared’s main areas of focus include data lake architecture, machine learning, and application embedded analytics. Jared regularly speaks at user groups and events across the Midwest, as well as blogs and provides technical review for SQL Server publications.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/brianlarsonscs
Contact: http://sqlmag.com/author/brian-larson
Brian Larson is Chief Creative Officer/Partner at Superior Consulting Services and has presented at SQL Server Connections, PASS Summit, and the Microsoft BI Conference. As a consultant to Microsoft, Brian contributed to the original code base of Reporting Services. Brian is the author of “Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Reporting Services: 5th Edition” and “Delivering Business Intelligence with SQL Server 2016: 4th Edition”, as well as the forthcoming “Data Analysis with Microsoft Power BI.”
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimhorn
Contact: http://www.jimhorn.biz
Microsoft-based database developer specializing in Business Intelligence, ETL, and Dashboard solutions using Microsoft SQL Server, SSIS, SSRS, and the Power BI suite. Have worked as a developer, staff manager, production support manager, and internal and external consultant. I regularly answer questions and write article on Experts-Exchange.com Presented at SQLSaturday #238 (2013, Minnesota), #453 (2015, Minnesota), and at various local chapters. Email jim at jimhorn dot biz, twitter @sqljimbo
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ericzierdt
Contact: http://ericemployed.blogspot.com
Eric is a level 70 Data Slayer, who has worked with SQL Server since 2000. Eric has worked with benefit systems, real estate data, marketing, game data, and medical device data. Eric enjoys performance tuning, T-SQL programming, and SQL Server Administration.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/douglane4
Contact: http://www.sqltheater.com
Doug Lane is the founder of SQL Theater, a company specializing in helping junior developers and public speakers. Doug has over 15 years#39; experience in IT and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Media Production. In addition to presenting at conferences, SQLSaturdays, and user group meetings, Doug also blogs and produces video training courses.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesdorame
Contact: http://www.jamesdorame.com/
Jim Dorame has been working with SQL Server for over 20 years. Over those years he has learned a great deal from the SQL community. He has also given back to the community in the hopes that he may help someone in their career. He is always looking for something to learn and luckily Microsoft keeps adding to SQL Server.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckhieber
I am an accidental database administrator with 18 years in IT, the last 5 years as a Developer DBA, including 1 year when I was doing double time as a production DBA and developer DBA. My years of experience include everything from Microsoft Access and ColdFusion to SQL Server and .NET. I am a frequent attendee of SQLSaturdays across the Midwest, and hope to become a frequent speaker.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgosling
I've worked on a variety of data platforms including SQL Server, Oracle, DB 2 and Hadoop. SQL Server has been my choice OLTP/Data Warehouse platform for many business needs. These days I'm working almost exclusively in the cloud using Microsoft's Azure and a variety of new products like Azure Data Warehouse, Azure Cosmos DB and Data Factory. As a Microsoft employee, my focus is working on our data platform for our financial services customers.
Contact: http://blogs.lessthandot.com/index.php/author/mndba/
Paul is a Microsoft SQL Server MVP and the Lead SQL Server DBA at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Paul has fifteen years of experience in database administration and currently the Chapter Leader of the Minnesota SQL Server User Group, PASSMN. Paul is an active member of the PASS community and routinely speaks at user group meetings and SQLSaturday conferences.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/davidaklee
Contact: http://davidklee.net
David Klee is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP and VMware vExpert with a lifelong passion for technology. David spends his days focusing on the convergence of data and infrastructure as the Founder of Heraflux Technologies. His areas of expertise include cloud, virtualization, performance, and business continuity. David speaks at a number of national and regional technology related events, including PASS Summit, VMware VMworld, SQLBits, SQLSaturday events, and many SQL Server User Groups.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/dataonwheels
Contact: http://www.dataonwheels.com
Steve Hughes is the Director of Consulting at Pragmatic Works. In his current role, Steve manages the consultant team at Pragmatic Works and directs implementation of our cloud practices for customers. He focuses on team development and company growth with this role. In his previous role as a Principal Consultant Lead, he focused designing solutions for customers on Microsoft technologies including SQL Server, Power BI, and Azure. He has been working with technology for over 20 years with much of that time spent on creating business intelligence solutions and helping customers implement leading BI and cloud solutions. He is passionate about using data effectively and helping customers understand that data is valuable and profitable.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/eleightondick
Contact: http://www.edleightondick.com
Ed Leighton-Dick is a Microsoft MVP, SQL Server performance and architecture specialist, and Founder/Principal Consultant of Kingfisher Technologies. He is a frequent volunteer with PASS, including current roles as a Regional Mentor, co-leader of I-380 PASS local group, and co-leader of the HA/DR virtual group. He can often be found teaching sessions at local, regional, and national events, including user groups, SQLSaturday, and PASS Summit.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginger-grant-3a177b157/
Contact: http://www.DesertIsleSQL.com
Ginger Grant manages the consultancy Desert Isle Group and shares what she has learned while working with data technology to people around the world. As a Microsoft MVP in Data Platform, Microsoft Certified Trainer and an instructor on DataCamp, she focuses on guiding clients to create solutions using the entire Microsoft Data Stack, which includes SQL Server, Power BI, and Azure Data Cloud components. When not working, she protypes the latest pre-release data technologies, maintains her blog http://www.desertislesql.com, and spends time on twitter @desertislesql.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rossmcneely
Contact: https://rossmcneely.com
Ross McNeely is a Tail Wind Principal Consultant in Data Management, and the Practice Manager of Business Intelligence. He works with external vendors, customers, and partners to integrate disperse data sources. Throughout most of his 15 year career he has been specializing in Information Management, and implementing solutions for Information Strategy, Information Asset Management, Enterprise Data Management, and Business Intelligence.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sqlha
Contact: http://sqlha.com/blog
Max Myrick is a SQL Server consultant whose experience includes 15 years at Microsoft with 5 years on the SQL Server development team where he ran the SQL Customer Lab and then the Sustained Engineering team. He was an founding member of Microsoft#39;s Mission Critical team where he worked with the largest SQL Server applications worldwide for almost a decade. Max was a regular speaker for Microsoft and has continued to speak at various PASS and other SQL Conferences since becoming a managing partner of SQLHA LLC.
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddblatti
Todd Blatti currently serves as the Director of Solution Architecture at Delphix for the Central US and Canada. For over twenty years, Todd has consulted to commercial accounts across North America in leading business change and creating competitive IT landscapes. Todd is equally adept at discussing business value with C-level executives as debating technical requirements with operations staff. With senior roles at Oracle and IBM, Todd has extensive experience in IT Architecture, Engineered/Converged Systems, Data Virtualization, Security, and other enterprise software technologies.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonstrate/
Contact: http://www.jasonstrate.com/
Jason Strate is a SQL Server Solutions Architect with Pragmatic Works. He is also a Microsoft SQL Server MVP and MCM. He has over 15 years of experience developing, architecting, and managing data platforms. Jason writes, blogs, and presents on SQL Server.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wadamjorgensen/
Contact: http://www.pragmaticworks.com
As President of Pragmatic Works Consulting Adam drives market strategy, sales, partnerships, implementation and thought leadership. He has over 15 years of experience helping companies use their data to fuel their growth. Adam has been wowing audiences around the world for over a decade. He has delivered hundreds of sessions, published over a dozen books and hundreds of online videos and webinars on data and cloud topics. His passion is growing companies and mentoring leaders and companies to help them achieve their dreams.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/andy-galbraith/5/149/98b
Contact: http://nebraskasql.blogspot.com/
I’m a forty-something Microsoft SQL Server DBA of 18+ years, a devoted husband, and a father of three young boys (all aged eight and under!) I have been a DBA at a public university, at a major bank, at a healthcare system, and I now work as a consultant with customers across the United States. I write and speak primarily about the tips and tricks that I discover along my SQL Server journey.
LinkedIn: http://ca.linkedin.com/in/mdefehr
Contact: http://mikedefehr.com
Michael DeFehr is an independent SQL Server consultant based in Winnipeg, Canada. He is focused on database administration and development using Microsoft SQL Server. A SQL Server MVP, Professional Engineer and MCITP in both Database Development and Administration, Mike has spent the past 15 years producing and maintaining database solutions. Mike specializes in the relational and storage engines and his solutions emphasize performance and simplicity.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-bland-sql-server
Contact: https://www.davebland.com
Over 20 years of SQL Server experience that includes being a DBA, BI development and Application development using VB.NET. Dave currently is the Manager of the DBA team at Stericycle. Dave is a Friend of Red-Gate for 2019. He is a frequent presenter at SQLSaturday events and user groups around the country. Has been teaching SQL Server since version 2000 and is the SQL Server instructor at Harper College in Palatine, IL. Current certifications include: • Microsoft Certified Trainer • MCTS: SQL Server 2008, Implementation and Maintenance • MCTS: SQL Server 2008, BI Development and Maintenance • MCSA: SQL Server 2008 • MCSA: SQL Server 2016 • MCSE: SQL Server 2016 - BI • MCDBA: SQL Server 2000 • MCSD • MCSE: Data Management and Analytics
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/en/philekins
Phil Ekins is a Principal Architect at House of Brick Technologies. With over two decades of experience in SQL Server, Automation, Migrations, Virtualization and HA/DR Solutions. Phil has presented at SQLSaturday's and Local Chapters. As a AWS Certified Solutions Architect and a seasoned SQL Server Professional Phil brings a DBA's needs to the world of cloud computing.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ericzierdt
Contact: http://ericemployed.blogspot.com
Eric is a level 70 Data Slayer, who has worked with SQL Server since 2000. Eric has worked with benefit systems, real estate data, marketing, game data, and medical device data. Eric enjoys performance tuning, T-SQL programming, and SQL Server Administration.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/davidaklee
Contact: http://davidklee.net
David Klee is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP and VMware vExpert with a lifelong passion for technology. David spends his days focusing on the convergence of data and infrastructure as the Founder of Heraflux Technologies. His areas of expertise include cloud, virtualization, performance, and business continuity. David speaks at a number of national and regional technology related events, including PASS Summit, VMware VMworld, SQLBits, SQLSaturday events, and many SQL Server User Groups.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachaelmartino
Rachael has been both an IT Executive and a Consultant. Systems training, data based application development experience and leadership training have prepared her to build stable. maintainable and successful solutions. Rachael has been in the industry working with SQL Server since SQL 2000. She started out her IT life as an application developer and lead a team of developers, creating data centric applications using SQL Server and Oracle. She has worked in the Business Intelligence field using SSAS, multi-dimensional and Tabular, SSRS, SSIS, and PowerBI. She has two Masters degrees from MIT, Systems Design and Management amp; Civil Engineering Information Technology. Her interests surround the Big Data and Data Science areas.
Cecil is a DBA Engineer in the Twin Cities. He has been working in IT for over 20 years and was a consultant and a programmer/developer for many years until he was converted to the dark side.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briantbeswick
Contact: http://brianbeswick.com/
Brian is a Managing Consultant at Allegient. He has many years of experience in database architecture and development across multiple versions of SQL Server. He’s an accomplished Database Architect with a specialty in Business Intelligence. He’s particularly strong at understanding and designing solutions for complex requirements.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrgbryant
George has over a decade of experience in the Business Intelligence industry and is an active member of the BI community across the Midwest. His knowledge spans multiple industries including, retail, manufacturing, finance, and medical, however recent years has seen him focus on the analytics in sports. George specializes in BI architecture and end to end development in order to deliver advanced analytics and metrics to multiple organizations across the country. In recent years George has focused on and worked primarily in the Azure cloud, utilizing both established and recent offerings.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathrinewilhelmsen
Contact: https://www.cathrinewilhelmsen.net/
Cathrine loves teaching and sharing knowledge :) She is based in Norway and works as a Senior Business Intelligence Consultant in Inmeta, focusing on Data Warehousing, Data Integration, Analytics, and Reporting projects. Her core skills are Azure Data Factory, SSIS, Biml and T-SQL development, but she enjoys everything from programming to data visualization. Outside of work she's active in the SQL Server community as a Microsoft Data Platform MVP, BimlHero Certified Expert, author, speaker, blogger, organizer and chronic volunteer.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikefulkerson
Mike is a Microsoft Data Platform Technical Specialist in the Twin Cities, Greater Minnesota, and the Dakotas. He has had a long and varied career in I.T. but one constant companion has been Microsoft SQL. "Love SQL and it will love you back!" ~ME
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/denglishbi
Contact: http://denglishbi.wordpress.com
Dan is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP, author, technical editor, and community leader. He has been developing with Microsoft technologies for over 20 years, and over 15 years with Data Warehousing and Business Intelligence. He has been working with SQL Server since version 6.5 and now using 2017 and in Azure. Dan is the chapter leader for the PASS Business Analytics virtual group and on the executive leadership team for the MN Microsoft BI user group.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sqlrv
Contact: http://sqlrv.com
Aaron N. Cutshall is an Enterprise Data Architect with 20 years of experience in analysis, design and development for applications and databases in manufacturing and warehousing plus over 15 years in the Healthcare Informatics field. His primary focus is in designing and developing solutions for extremely large data sets that perform quite well in SQL Server. He is active in the SQL Server community and speaks at SQLSaturday sessions across the country.
Contact: http://sqlandcomics.com/
I#39;ve been working in SQL Server for 4 years. I specialize in SSIS development and query performance tuning.
Contact: http://www.spartansql.com
Born naked and defenseless, he overcame these obstacles to become a mender of broken things, seeker of magic rings, and occasional watcher of slow pings.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sqlrv
Contact: http://sqlrv.com
Aaron N. Cutshall is an Enterprise Data Architect with 20 years of experience in analysis, design and development for applications and databases in manufacturing and warehousing plus over 15 years in the Healthcare Informatics field. His primary focus is in designing and developing solutions for extremely large data sets that perform quite well in SQL Server. He is active in the SQL Server community and speaks at SQLSaturday sessions across the country.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anton-rozenson-503a917
Anton Rozenson has over 17 years of information technology experience, focusing in the business intelligence arena. He has worked both in the consulting industry as well as directly with companies in various roles from Programmer Analyst, Developer, Data Architect, Manager and Solutions Architect.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/markvsql/
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.
The following is a list of sponsors that helped fund the event.