The Exceptional DBA Awards are back!

Vote for the winner of 2009's Exceptional DBA Awards in August

The Exceptional DBA Awards are in their second year, and SQLServerCentral.com and Red Gate are looking for the Exceptional DBA of 2009! Nominations have now closed, and the panel of judges is currently reviewing the entries. Help us find the Exceptional DBA of 2009 and vote for one of the five finalists between August 10th and 17th on this website. More information coming soon...

A story of success

In 2008, Dan McClain was named the Exceptional DBA of the year, and he is convinced that "the award opened up a few important doors" in his search for a new career direction. McClain says the Exceptional DBA of the Year award helped confirm to his new employers "that they were getting an accomplished, knowledgeable, seasoned professional with proven success."

A wider circle

Another door was opened by the top prize of free registration and travel expenses for the 2008 PASS Community Summit in Seattle. The recognition that accompanied the Exceptional DBA of the Year Award gave McClain the opportunity to interact with a wider group of professionals, including some of the best and brightest SQL Server practitioners, authors and consultants.

Strapping on the Toolbelt

McClain's other major prize – Red Gate's SQL Toolbelt with 36 months of support and upgrades – has also been valuable in this new phase of his career.

"I've put the Toolbelt to good use already, especially SQL Compare and SQL Packager. The SQL Toolbelt is a great set of utilities that every DBA should have in his or her arsenal."

Have a question about the awards? If you can't find an answer to your question on About, please email the Exceptional DBA Awards team.