Gilda stands as an inspiring model for Latinas in technology, holding degrees in MIS and Computer Science from the prestigious University of Central Florida. With over two decade of impactful leadership in Enterprise Information Technology for Fortune 500 companies, she specializes in database design, implementation, and optimization, placing a strong emphasis on high availability and business continuity. Gilda's expertise spans security audits, database health checks, capacity planning, and migrations for distinguished organizations like IBM, Disney, IRS, and federal defense agencies. Currently leading as the CEO of Waveform Data Solutions, Gilda also champions initiatives that empower Latinas in the tech space, founding Latinas in Data—a mentoring and educational non-profit. Gilda's illustrious career, spanning more than two decades, serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to shaping and uplifting the data technology landscape for aspiring Latinas in the industry.

Gilda stands as an inspiring model for Latinas in technology, holding degrees in MIS and Computer Science from the prestigious University of Central Florida. With over two decade of impactful leadership in Enterprise Information Technology for Fortun... Show more

All my career, I've been working in the data field. Initially, I started my data journey with Excel and later transitioned to Tableau and, after a few years, to Power BI, which I've used almost since its creation.
But that's not all — I've also been sharing my data love with others, teaching them how to use these awesome tools during trainings and conferences. While doing this, I was accepted into the Microsoft MVP program (year 2024).
I'm super passionate about data, and nothing makes me happier than passing on my knowledge to kindred spirits so that they can rock the data world, too!

All my career, I've been working in the data field. Initially, I started my data journey with Excel and later transitioned to Tableau and, after a few years, to Power BI, which I've used almost since its creation. But that's not all — I've also bee... Show more

Jess Pomfret is a Data Platform Engineer and a dual Microsoft MVP. She started working with SQL Server in 2011, and enjoys problem-solving and automating processes with PowerShell.

She also enjoys contributing to dbatools and dbachecks, two open source PowerShell modules that aid DBAs with automating the management of SQL Server instances. She has also contributed to the SqlServerDsc module, adding several new resources to use when configuring your SQL Servers.

She grew up in the South West of England and outside of her DBA life enjoys Crossfit, cycling and watching proper football.

Jess Pomfret is a Data Platform Engineer and a dual Microsoft MVP. She started working with SQL Server in 2011, and enjoys problem-solving and automating processes with PowerShell. She also enjoys contributing to dbatools and dbachecks, two open ... Show more

Sónia is a Portuguese/German BI Specialist that has been working @DevScope, a Gold Data Analytics Microsoft Partner, for the last 6 years.

Sónia's academic journey began in Biomedical Engineering, where she honed her analytical and problem-solving skills. Her passion for leveraging data to improve healthcare and decision-making led her to her current role. At DevScope, she harnesses her knowledge to drive data-driven solutions, ensuring that insights are not only powerful but also tailored to specific business needs.

She is enthusiastic about anything data related - from programming to data visualization.

Sónia is a Portuguese/German BI Specialist that has been working @DevScope, a Gold Data Analytics Microsoft Partner, for the last 6 years. Sónia's academic journey began in Biomedical Engineering, where she honed her analytical and problem-solving... Show more

Shubhangi is an award winning experienced professional in data and AI worked in Fortune 500 companies like Tata Consultancy Services to agile start-ups. She has a background in computer science engineering with an MSc in Business Analytics from the University of Bath, UK. She works as a Senior Analyst at a leading FTSE100 company in financial services and insurance in the UK. Previously, she led multiple projects at ICS AI Ltd, a Microsoft UK inner circle partner, focusing on artificial intelligence and data at the forefront of technology for the public sector in the UK. She has spent nearly a decade in data analytics, data science, data strategy, and AI, leveraging algorithms to extract insights, identify patterns, and understand human language in large datasets. She leads the London Chapter for Women In Data which is a platform for tech enthusiasts of all backgrounds to connect, grow and learn together. She is a verified expert and mentor at TopMate. She has also been the judge of Datathon 2024 and has delivered sessions in over 10 countries. She has also been nominated for several awards including WomenTechNetwork global awards.

Shubhangi is an award winning experienced professional in data and AI worked in Fortune 500 companies like Tata Consultancy Services to agile start-ups. She has a background in computer science engineering with an MSc in Business Analytics from the U... Show more

Mala Mahadevan is a senior database professional with over 20 years of experience working with data, primarily in SQL Server and related technologies. She has been volunteering with SQL Server community for the past 15 years and is also a recipient of the PASSion award for being an outstanding volunteer. She is a featured blogger on sqlservercentral.com and also blogs infrequently at curiousaboutdata.com.

Mala Mahadevan is a senior database professional with over 20 years of experience working with data, primarily in SQL Server and related technologies. She has been volunteering with SQL Server community for the past 15 years and is also a recipient o... Show more

With a diverse background in journalism and retail, Linda brings both business insight and attention to storytelling to the table as a data warehouse developer. Coupled with her passion for learning new tech and trying new things.

With a diverse background in journalism and retail, Linda brings both business insight and attention to storytelling to the table as a data warehouse developer. Coupled with her passion for learning new tech and trying new things. Show more

Microsoft MVP Data Platform
Microsoft Certified: Fabric Data Engineer Associate, Fabric Analytics Engineer Associate, Azure Enterprise Data Analyst Associate, Power BI Data Analyst Associate

Over 7 years successfully working as an independent Power BI developer and data analyst within the public and private sector.

Reporting solutions range from project management, planning , financial reporting, specific service sector reporting, bespoke data cleansing and sentiment analysis.

15 years of lecturing in Business and Computing before starting my own business.

I am passionate about data in general and how we can harness information to grow business. Knowledge of R, SQL and C# but main love is Python, M and DAX.

When not in front of the screen, I love to run and walk my dog and be outside.

Microsoft MVP Data Platform Microsoft Certified: Fabric Data Engineer Associate, Fabric Analytics Engineer Associate, Azure Enterprise Data Analyst Associate, Power BI Data Analyst Associate Over 7 years successfully working as an independent Po... Show more

Angela is a Senior Architect, living in High Point, NC and loves what she does. She's worked with all versions of SQL Server & worn all the hats that come with dealing with SQL Server throughout the years: developer, administrator, data architect and BI developer. She has her MSCE in Data and Analytics (f.k.a., Business Intelligence), is a Data Platform MVP, and a Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT). She is the former chapter leader for the PASS Triad SQL User Group in Greensboro, NC. In her spare time you can probably find her in or at the pool, she's an avid US Masters Swimmer, Coach and Instructor.

Angela is a Senior Architect, living in High Point, NC and loves what she does. She's worked with all versions of SQL Server & worn all the hats that come with dealing with SQL Server throughout the years: developer, administrator, data architect and... Show more

Senior Microsoft Data Platform Professional with a masters in business analytics, and multiple Microsoft/AWS certifications. Kristina has provided Leadership and Data Solutions for over 20 years for domestic and global organizations with a special passion in health informatics, finance, and manufacturing. Nicknamed "Data Generalist" for her ability to quickly pivot, Kristina has held data roles across the spectrum including Data Architect, Data Engineer, DBA, Developer, Consultant, Data Analyst, Manager, Coach, and more. Her current role is Lead Data Architect for Kent Worldwide's Data and the Analytics & Data Management Team, as well as serving on their Center of Cloud Excellence (CCoE) board. Her current technical passion is Microsoft Fabric and Machine Learning Technologies.

In her free time, Kristina organizes/co-organizes several user groups, travels globally, sometimes blogs, rambles on various social media, takes pics of her dog, and runs around to her kids' events. She has spoken at large conferences and small user groups both internationally and here in the US on topics including AI, the Microsoft Data Platform, and neurodiversity. She has a special passion for WIT and co-leads the DATAWIT group.

Senior Microsoft Data Platform Professional with a masters in business analytics, and multiple Microsoft/AWS certifications. Kristina has provided Leadership and Data Solutions for over 20 years for domestic and global organizations with a special pa... Show more

Jes Chapman is a Data & AI Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft. With a dynamic background spanning software engineering to product management, and enriched by years as a SQL consultant and field engineer for SQL Server, Jes brings a wealth of expertise from the heart of Microsoft. A former five-time Microsoft Data Platform MVP, she's contributed to technical books and taught from stages worldwide with her passion for teaching. When not immersed in the cloud, you'll find Jes conquering trails, hiking through nature's wonders, or experimenting in the kitchen.

Jes Chapman is a Data & AI Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft. With a dynamic background spanning software engineering to product management, and enriched by years as a SQL consultant and field engineer for SQL Server, Jes brings a wealth of exper... Show more

Cathrine loves data and coding, as well as teaching and sharing knowledge 🤓 She is based in Norway and works as a Data & Analytics Principal Consultant in Evidi, focusing on Data Integration and Data Warehousing. Her core skills are Microsoft Fabric, Azure Synapse Analytics, Azure Data Factory, Azure SQL, SQL Server and T-SQL development, but she enjoys everything from programming to data visualization. Outside of work she’s active in the Azure and Microsoft Data communities as a Microsoft Data Platform MVP, international speaker, blogger, organizer, and chronic volunteer. She blogs at cathrinew.net and posts as @cathrinew.net on Bluesky.

Cathrine loves data and coding, as well as teaching and sharing knowledge 🤓 She is based in Norway and works as a Data & Analytics Principal Consultant in Evidi, focusing on Data Integration and Data Warehousing. Her core skills are Microsoft Fabric... Show more

Shannon’s background in global public health has shaped her commitment to community and accessibility, guiding her work leading Fabric Community Engagement at Microsoft. She loves helping people find their place in the data world—a journey that began when she first discovered the magic of Power Query, sparking a lasting enchantment with Microsoft BI tools. Now, whether she’s conjuring up data insights with the Workout Wednesday team, gathering with fellow data witches in user groups, or brewing up connections, Shannon’s focus is on making data feel less intimidating. She’s dedicated to building a welcoming community where data pros and newcomers alike can learn, grow, and connect—casting spells of empathy and connection to bring people together.

Shannon’s background in global public health has shaped her commitment to community and accessibility, guiding her work leading Fabric Community Engagement at Microsoft. She loves helping people find their place in the data world—a journey that began... Show more

On a mission to turn everyday users into data heroes through Microsoft Technology 🚀

On a mission to turn everyday users into data heroes through Microsoft Technology 🚀 Show more

Courtney Woolum is a self-taught SQL Server Database Administrator of 10 years based out of Cleveland, Ohio. Her primary focus is on performance tuning with a heavy emphasis on improving older applications or ones that haven't had a full time DBA resource. Her passion for teaching, frequent tech tips to her teams, and one-on-one SQL discussions.

Courtney Woolum is a self-taught SQL Server Database Administrator of 10 years based out of Cleveland, Ohio. Her primary focus is on performance tuning with a heavy emphasis on improving older applications or ones that haven't had a full time DBA res... Show more

Power BI fangirl since 2018, leading end-to-end BI implementations across industries including Insurance and Retail. On a mission to help organisations create a Power BI Culture, and drive adoption through proper governance.

Power BI fangirl since 2018, leading end-to-end BI implementations across industries including Insurance and Retail. On a mission to help organisations create a Power BI Culture, and drive adoption through proper governance. Show more

Steph heads up a team of digital and app innovation architects in Microsoft, helping some of the UK’s biggest organisations use the cloud to deliver more value faster. She has a broad technology background in data, AI, and software and has experience running consultancies and startups. Steph loves open source, and the impact accessible tech can have on empowering people, so she dedicates her spare time to helping others improve their use of tech. She was a Microsoft Most Valued Professional for five years in a row, she sits on the board of the SQL Saturday Foundation, and she is a co-chair for the EU SME Digital Alliance AI Focus Group.

Steph heads up a team of digital and app innovation architects in Microsoft, helping some of the UK’s biggest organisations use the cloud to deliver more value faster. She has a broad technology background in data, AI, and software and has experience... Show more

Hi there! 👋 I’m a Data Engineer, BI and UX Consultant with a passion for building end-to-end data solutions that drive business decisions. Whether it’s on-premise or in the cloud, I design efficient pipelines, craft insightful KPIs, and ensure businesses have the tools they need to unlock the power of their data. My mission is to make analytics not just functional but intuitive and impactful because great insights deserve great design. 🚀

Hi there! 👋 I’m a Data Engineer, BI and UX Consultant with a passion for building end-to-end data solutions that drive business decisions. Whether it’s on-premise or in the cloud, I design efficient pipelines, craft insightful KPIs, and ensure busin... Show more

Amy is a data engineer with a passion for building modern data platforms and delivering data-driven solutions. She holds a degree in Cognitive Science & Artificial Intelligence and has been working in the tech industry for several years. Amy is also an enthusiastic trainer and enjoys sharing her knowledge with others. She regularly conducts workshops on Managed Cloud Platforms and Infrastructure as Code (IaC). Outside of work, Amy enjoys playing the piano and video games, as well as hosting a radio show at a local radio station.

Amy is a data engineer with a passion for building modern data platforms and delivering data-driven solutions. She holds a degree in Cognitive Science & Artificial Intelligence and has been working in the tech industry for several years. Amy is also ... Show more

Muazma Zahid is a Group Product Manager at Google Cloud, where she leads product strategy for BigQuery and other key components of Google's data platform. With a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the data and AI space, Muazma is passionate about empowering enterprises to build innovative, data-driven solutions. She has been a Data Engineer/Architect and Tech Speaker working on several Big Data, Cloud Computing, and AI Technologies. She is a LinkedIn Learning instructor and her ML research software is used in EKG machines all around the world.

Connect with Muazma at: https://linktr.ee/muazma

Muazma Zahid is a Group Product Manager at Google Cloud, where she leads product strategy for BigQuery and other key components of Google's data platform. With a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the data and AI space, Muazma ... Show more

Chrissy LeMaire is a dual Microsoft MVP and GitHub Star. She is a well-known speaker and the creator of several PowerShell modules, including dbatools. Chrissy also holds an MSc. in Systems Engineering and currently works as an Automation Engineer in Europe.

Chrissy LeMaire is a dual Microsoft MVP and GitHub Star. She is a well-known speaker and the creator of several PowerShell modules, including dbatools. Chrissy also holds an MSc. in Systems Engineering and currently works as an Automation Engineer in... Show more

Pam Lahoud is a Program Manager in Microsoft Fabric, based in Redmond, WA, USA. She has been with Microsoft since 2006 and is currently leading the Fabric Databases Customer Advisory Team. She is passionate about Azure SQL and SQL Server performance and has focused on performance tuning and optimization, particularly from the developer perspective, throughout her career. She is a SQL 2008 MCM with over 20 years of experience working with Azure SQL and SQL Server and co-author of the book "Learn T-SQL Querying: A guide to developing efficient and elegant T-SQL code" (https://aka.ms/LearnTSQLQuerying).

Pam Lahoud is a Program Manager in Microsoft Fabric, based in Redmond, WA, USA. She has been with Microsoft since 2006 and is currently leading the Fabric Databases Customer Advisory Team. She is passionate about Azure SQL and SQL Server performance ... Show more

Meagan Longoria is a Data Analytics Architect with Procure SQL who lives in Denver, Colorado. She is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP. Meagan spends a lot of time thinking about how to use data integration and data visualization techniques to make data useful for people. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences at conferences and user group meetings as well as through her blog (DataSavvy.me).

Meagan Longoria is a Data Analytics Architect with Procure SQL who lives in Denver, Colorado. She is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP. Meagan spends a lot of time thinking about how to use data integration and data visualization techniques to make data ... Show more

Holly Smith is a Developer Advocate at Databricks, a multi‑award‑winning Data and AI expert, and a first‑rate tech educator. One of the earliest members of the Databricks crew, she’s spent over a decade at the sharp end of data and AI, helping teams turn big ideas into working solutions.

A familiar face on stage, Holly’s known for her clear, engaging talks and her knack for making complex topics click. She’s also the brains behind many YouTube videos on AI and data engineering - equal parts practical know‑how and good humour. In short: if it’s data, AI, and worth knowing, Holly’s probably already talking about it.

Holly Smith is a Developer Advocate at Databricks, a multi‑award‑winning Data and AI expert, and a first‑rate tech educator. One of the earliest members of the Databricks crew, she’s spent over a decade at the sharp end of data and AI, helping teams ... Show more

Kendra Little (she/her) helps DBAs and developers squeeze every drop of performance out of SQL Server and PostgreSQL. She’s a Staff Database Reliability Engineer, a Microsoft Certified Master in SQL Server, and a seasoned speaker with deep experience in consulting, DevOps, and production firefighting. Kendra specializes in teaching real-world humans how to troubleshoot tough database problems, build smarter automation, and keep systems stable and snappy.

Kendra Little (she/her) helps DBAs and developers squeeze every drop of performance out of SQL Server and PostgreSQL. She’s a Staff Database Reliability Engineer, a Microsoft Certified Master in SQL Server, and a seasoned speaker with deep experience... Show more

Hope Foley, a former Microsoft data platform MVP and database and BI consultant, has worked across many industries including insurance, health organization, and federal government. She has worked for Microsoft for over 8 years, most recently as a Senior Technical Specialist focusing on the education industry. Hope is based in Indianapolis and is an active member in the data and former PASS communities speaking at events and has organized the SQLSaturday event in Indianapolis for 10 years.

Hope Foley, a former Microsoft data platform MVP and database and BI consultant, has worked across many industries including insurance, health organization, and federal government. She has worked for Microsoft for over 8 years, most recently as a Se... Show more

As a Creative Data Strategist, Director, and Microsoft Data Platform MVP, I specialize in guiding organizations through the complex terrain of Data & AI transformation. My expertise lies in building strong governance foundations and guardrails, embedding Responsible AI practices, and aligning technology with measurable business outcomes.

With 20+ years of leadership experience, I have helped enterprises and educational institutions design resilient data strategies, strengthen compliance frameworks, and unlock innovation across diverse sectors. As an international speaker and advocate for ethical AI, I translate technical depth into strategic clarity—empowering leaders to make confident, future‑ready decisions.

Core strengths include:
• Data & AI Strategy — shaping innovation pipelines and delivering transformative outcomes
• Governance & Compliance — embedding GDPR, ISO 27001, DAMA, and CDMC standards
• Responsible AI — driving ethical adoption across business and technology sectors
• Executive Advisory — engaging C‑suite stakeholders and fostering cross‑functional collaboration
• Thought Leadership — recognized as a Microsoft MVP and international speaker on Data & AI
• Cloud Architecture & Transformation — bridging technical infrastructure with organizational impact

I thrive on connecting narrative, strategy, and technology to create adaptive learning cultures and future‑proof systems. Currently seeking senior innovation and product leadership roles where I can drive Responsible AI adoption, strengthen governance, and deliver lasting institutional impact.

As a Creative Data Strategist, Director, and Microsoft Data Platform MVP, I specialize in guiding organizations through the complex terrain of Data & AI transformation. My expertise lies in building strong governance foundations and guardrails, embed... Show more

Before the commencement of her reign as the "Database Security Czarina of NISA," Sharon Reid was an adjunct English professor. After taking a LaunchCode class on SQL, she was asked to be a teaching assistant and then took over as lead mentor for the SQL cohort for LaunchCode Women+. Currently, she is on the St. Louis SQL Server and BI user group advisory board. Sharon enjoys sharing her passion for database security and is determined to make it fun, practical and implemented.

Before the commencement of her reign as the "Database Security Czarina of NISA," Sharon Reid was an adjunct English professor. After taking a LaunchCode class on SQL, she was asked to be a teaching assistant and then took over as lead mentor for the ... Show more

Haripriya Naidu has been working as a SQL Server Database Administrator for 11 years in Boston, MA. She is passionate about databases and enjoys diving into SQL Server engine internals and optimizing performance. She is an AWS Certified Solutions Associate and won "Rookie of the Year" Award at work in 2024 for outstanding performance and "Bookworm of the Year" Award at work in 2025 for continuously learning and sharing knowledge with the team.
She recently started her speaking journey with New Stars of Data and spoke at SQL Saturdays Boston, Albany and San Diego and PASS Summit 2024.

Haripriya Naidu has been working as a SQL Server Database Administrator for 11 years in Boston, MA. She is passionate about databases and enjoys diving into SQL Server engine internals and optimizing performance. She is an AWS Certified Solutions Ass... Show more

Priscilla Camp is a Microsoft Certified Data Analyst Associate, and the co-leader of the Data and AI Central Florida User Group. She has 15 years of experience in the field of IT working in analytics. Priscilla’s focus is Data Warehousing, MS Power BI, and analytical strategy.

Priscilla Camp is a Microsoft Certified Data Analyst Associate, and the co-leader of the Data and AI Central Florida User Group. She has 15 years of experience in the field of IT working in analytics. Priscilla’s focus is Data Warehousing, MS Power B... Show more