I got my first computer when I was 12 and became fascinated with all aspects of programming. After a wonderful college education at the University of Virginia, I spent a few years managing a nightclub before realizing that I really missed computing.

I began my new career working with Netware at a nuclear power plant. There I was thrust into the very unstable world of SQL Server 4.2 on OS2 1.3 and 100 hour work weeks. I found I really enjoyed SQL Server and decided to focus my career in that area.

I have worked with all versions since that time, primarily as a production DBA at all sizes of companies. During my career I became interested in writing in 1999, authoring articles in a few publications before founding SQLServerCentral.com with Andy Warren and MVP Brian Knight.

Since then I have continued to work with SQL Server, primarily focused on writing and teaching others how to build better applications with SQL Server. I have authored over 200 articles on various aspects of SQL Server and T-SQL.

Since 2004 I have expressed various opinions and thoughts about SQL Server and being a DBA with a daily editorial at SQLServerCentral.com. Since 2007 I have been producing The Voice of the DBA podcasts as well.

I currently work for Redgate Software, managing SQLServerCentral while writing and speaking on SQL Server and software development topics at various conferences. I am also the President of the SQL Saturday charitable foundation.