About Drew

tldr;

I currently work at Microsoft as a Principal Program Manager working on SQL tools/experiences. I’m obsessive about developer tools and libraries.

Introverted but friendly.

Tech to Empower

Developer tools are part of the medium that empower anyone to build better technology and are used globally to create solutions. It has been particularly exciting to experience the recent period of corporate acceptance and broader collaboration on open source software.

People First

People are a vital part of the health of any organization or project. Candid discussion rooted in compassion and respect is the first priority. The second priority is to leverage that sense of safety to make growth achievable and approachable.

A Few Notable Things

Selected Projects

  • Query Editor Boost, Azure Data Studio extension
  • First Responder Kit Extension, Azure Data Studio extension
  • SQL Grader, Automated SQL query grading tool

Certifications and Degrees

  • Masters of Science, Computer Science (Georgia Tech) 2022
  • Microsoft Certified Azure Developer Associate 2020
  • Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert, Management & Analytics 2017, 2018, 2019
  • Microsoft Certified Trainer 2017, 2020
  • Certificate, Business Strategy (University of Virginia) 2016
  • Certificate, Software Product Management (University of Alberta) 2016
  • Masters of Science, Chemistry (University of Minnesota) 2011

A Historical Recap

The Early Years

2005-2011, BS and MS in Chemistry
The experiences I had presenting my undergraduate and graduate research findings, while occasionally terrifying, would be the foundation for further public speaking. While doing computational chemistry research, I wrote Python scripts to overcome output limitations in the software we used.

Transition

During 2010-2011, I transitioned female to male. My lived experiences prior to transition impact my current perspectives and communication styles. Continuing to be visible as a trans person is a conscious choice for both my own mental health and to help others.

Getting My Feet Under Me

2011-2012, Assorted Part-Time Jobs

  • Chemistry Instructor
  • Computer Networking Instructor
  • Microsoft Server Administration Instructor
  • Chemistry Course Content SME (Subject Matter Expert)

Digging Into Technology

  • 2013-2015, IT Manager
  • 2016-2020, Director of Technology
Working in a construction company that embraced technology was an excellent opportunity to grow with the company while keeping my hands in both technology infrastructure and application development.

SQL Saturday 796, 2019

In addition, I made contributions to a number of professional organizations and technical projects, including the Floor Covering B2B Association's "Order Status" web service specification and the Dynamics SL User Group Board of Directors.

DSLUG Conference

Database Tools

In 2020, I joined the SQL team at Microsoft as a Program Manager working on tooling for administrators and developers. I also started Georgia Tech’s online MS Computer Science (OMSCS) program with a specialization in Computing Systems. By the end of 2022 I completed OMSCS and in 2023 I was promoted to Principal Program (Product) Manager.

Microsoft Build, 2022

Microsoft Pride Stories

Between Georgia Tech and Microsoft, I’ve been enjoying the challenges and opportunities to grow.