Database Reference
In-Depth Information
The Virtual Chapter does an excellent job of running virtual events all throughout the
year. The many events the group runs are virtual, so no matter where you are located,
there is no excuse for not attending. As long as you have access to the Internet, you have
access to a number of free, high-quality events all throughout the year, 100% focused on
virtualization of SQL Server.
To learn more about the Virtual Chapter, go to
http://virtualization.sqlpass.org/
.
PASS SQLSaturday
During the past few VMworld events at which we have presented on database
virtualization, we always take the time to ask the audience the question, “How many
people in the audience have heard of or have attended a SQLSaturday event?” It never
ceases to amaze us at a presentation on SQL Server database virtualization what a low
percentage of the audience raises their hands. Usually the response is under 20%.
For those of you who have no idea what a SQLSaturday event is, it's the best thing an
industry user group has done in years. This comes from a person who has been actively
involved in user groups for over 30 years. My hat is off to the leadership of the
Professional Association of SQL Server who have lived up to their mission by
embracing the concept of SQLSaturday and nurturing their growth, almost since their
inception.
The best way to describe SQL Saturday is to quote the main SQLSaturday website,
which is located at
http://www.sqlsaturday.com/
:
PASS SQLSaturday's are free 1-day training events for SQL Server professionals
that focus on local speakers, providing a variety of high-quality technical
sessions, and making it all happen through the efforts of volunteers. Whether
you're attending a SQLSaturday or thinking about hosting your own, we think
you'll find it's a great way to spend a Saturday
—
or any day.
Even though the website talks about “local speakers,” many SQLSaturdays I have
attended in the U.S. have drawn high-quality speakers from all across the country. It's a
great place to see a Microsoft MVP speak. The best part about the event besides the
high-quality education is the SQL Server community, which is awesome. People are
committed to the community and want to help. You should take the time to volunteer for
a local SQLSaturday and become part of the event itself.
A little bit of trivia: Where and when was the first SQL Saturday held?
The answer is Orlando, Florida in 2007. The last time I checked, there have been well
over 250 SQLSaturday events held all over the world. SQLSaturdays are high-quality
events that should not be missed if you are serious about becoming a better technologist.
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