Last month, I started using Meetup to schedule SQL Server Study Group events. The idea is to meet twice a month with people that want to just talk about SQL Server and help fill in the holes in their knowledge. Unfortunately, due to a recent move and a personal development retreat coming up, I will … Continue reading Minnesota SQL Server Study Group (August)
For the past few months, I’ve been openly working towards the SQL Server MCM. I failed a couple times (written exam and lab) and passed one time (written exam). As part of working towards the MCM, I’ve been getting together to study with some friends and members of the local SQL Server community. To make … Continue reading Minnesota SQL Server Study Group (July)
Have you been thinking about getting certified? Are you close on finishing your studying but aren’t quite sure if you are ready? If so, then check the Certification Packs. With these you can buy one exam with a second shot option, you fail and you get to retake for free. Or buy a few exams … Continue reading Get Certified with Insurance
If you're reading this, it must be Monday morning. Oh dear, that means I am officially starting my public studying for the Microsoft Certified Master (MCM) exam. I've already failed this exam once and am not really up for failing again. To help prevent this, I figured studying through my blog and noting the things … Continue reading MCM Live Blog – Week December 13
Two things happened to me this morning. First, I woke up and took the written test for the SQL Server Microsoft Certified Master. Second, I failed said exam. While that might be a circumstance for pity, we should all be glad. Where’s the bar? First off, the exam is tough. Anyone that thought that the … Continue reading Cry, Baby, Cry! Failing the MCM Test
One thing that stuck out for me at the PASS Summit was the changes announced for the SQL Server Microsoft Certified Master (MCM) Program. The MCM program is Microsoft’s upper tier database administration certification. It is aimed at providing a validation of skills and knowledge for those with 5 or more years experience with SQL … Continue reading The SQL Server MCM Training Has Changed
Part of being in the technology industry requires a constant dedication to learning. The world is a constantly changing place and the things you know today aren’t going to be cutting edge tomorrow. Those that stay in place and don’t change with the times can sometimes appear to be zombies. Just drooling along from one … Continue reading Free Brains… I Mean Beta Exams
I’ve blogged about certifications a number of times in the past. One of the certifications that I really want to obtain in the future is the Microsoft Certified Master (MCM) for SQL Server 2008. This is a great certification that really dives in deep and requires classroom training and labs as part of the certification … Continue reading MCM Reading List – A New Years Resolution
I like discounts. Paying full price when I don’t have to sucks. It’s a waste of resources, and as a person who’s had to tune databases in the past I’ve grown quite fond of resource management. And the best resource ever to manage is dollars. Because you can buy stuff. What About 2nd Chance? I … Continue reading SQL Server Certification Discounts
Jobs aren’t a dime a dozen like they used to be during the dot-com bubble. These days the unemployment rate is heading to territory that hasn’t been seen in decades. With some states seeming unemployment rates as high as 15%. It becomes more important with every interview to differentiate yourself from the pack. Differentiate Yourself … Continue reading Moving to the Head of the Line
Strate SQL 