I recently (5-9 Mar 2012) delivered my five-day SSIS training course – From Zero To SSIS! – in London. The class was delivered in collaboration with TechniTrain. I must commend Chris Webb (blog | @Technitrain) and Helen Lau on their leadership, professionalism, and attention to detail. They made the course a breeze for the students and the instructor! It was a pleasure and privilege to work with them.
In addition to people just learning data integration, this class contained several experienced consultants. As the instructor, it is my challenge to deliver the material at an understandable pace for those brand new to SSIS while tossing out nuggets to keep those more experienced engaged. The first day is always the toughest, but I truly enjoy the challenge!
I do not begin instruction where other SSIS classes begin. I start in the middle and work my way out. I saw the effectiveness of this technique while serving (and instructing) in the US military, and I believe they call it “spiral”. It works well with topics as diverse and complex as SSIS.
One of the students, Greg M. Lucas (blog | @datacentricity), wrote a review of the course. Greg and I share a passion for test-driven database development. Another, Data Architect Eric Lawson (@ericjlawson), has already implemented design patterns from the SSIS Framework we discussed in class (and built a part during lab exercises on Day 5).
I read course reviews carefully and constantly endeavor to improve by adjusting content and delivery style. I also listen when attendees describe training they receive from others, whether SQL Server – or technology – or not. It is always flattering when students say of an instructor, “That person really knows their stuff!” or “That was like drinking from the fire hose!” But I much prefer when students report (as Greg did): “I thoroughly enjoyed all five days of this course, learning something new every day…”
I feel it’s not my job to impress you with how much I know about SSIS; rather, it’s my job to teach you as much SSIS as possible. When I approach training this way, my goals are aligned with your goals. Our success is coupled. Everyone wins.
Thanks to Chris and Helen for providing an awesome learning environment; and Greg and Eric and everyone who attended! TechniTrain and Linchpin People are planning another course for September in London. More on that in a couple months…
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Once again, thanks Andy for a fantastic course.
Sad that I missed this. it was the ZERO part of the course that put me off. Will sign up early for the september gig.