For Darrell Landrum, SQL Server isn’t just a skillset; it’s a career-long passion fueled by curiosity, collaboration, and, of course, plenty of coffee. 

As the SQL Server Team Manager at Main Street Technical Services, Darrell has been leading and supporting our database administrators since January 2020, combining technical expertise with a knack for helping others succeed.

Meet Darrell Landrum: From Data Center Nights to SQL Server Leadership

Darrell’s career began in a retail organization’s data center, working nights as a server operator. It was during those quiet hours that he dove into learning about servers and databases, eventually earning his Microsoft certification. While the environment was predominantly Oracle, that certification included SQL Server, and soon, Darrell was fluent in both.

Over the years, he moved through roles and projects that strengthened his database skills, but for the past decade, SQL Server has been his primary focus. His introduction to Main Street came through a former colleague who recognized Darrell’s expertise and knew he’d be a strong fit for the team.

Directing, Protecting, and Delivering Results

In Darrell’s words, his role is to “direct and protect” the SQL Server DBAs. That means assigning resources to clients, providing guidance throughout the engagement, and stepping in with technical support when needed. He’s especially skilled at performance troubleshooting for both new and established environments, ensuring systems are running at peak efficiency.

One of his recent highlights has been working with his largest client on a migration from SQL Server 2017 to newer versions. By introducing and optimizing availability groups—a feature the client hadn’t previously used, Darrell and the team have significantly improved stability and availability for their most critical databases.

Leading Through Mentorship

When asked about his proudest achievement at Main Street, Darrell doesn’t point to a single technical win. Instead, he reflects on the moments when he’s been able to provide other DBAs with recommendations that set them on a path to success. For him, helping others grow and solve problems is the most rewarding part of the job.

To stay sharp, Darrell subscribes to daily technical resources from leaders in the SQL Server community, including Brent Ozar, SQL Server Central, and MSSQLTips.com. While his last formal Microsoft certification was for SQL Server 2016, he’s actively exploring AI capabilities that could enhance the processes he manages today.

Life Outside the Office

When he’s not working, Darrell enjoys reading, watching TV and movies, and staying active through running, walking, and swimming. Family is a big focus, he and his wife spent years traveling to watch their daughter compete as a collegiate swimmer, and now they’re cheering on their son, who’s following in her footsteps.

Learn More About SQL DBA Services at Main Street

With Main Street Technical Service’s continued growth, Darrell sees himself as an “ever-improving contributor,” combining self-evaluation with feedback from leadership and peers. His goal is to continually refine processes, mentor his team, and leverage new technologies, all while keeping coffee close at hand. We’re grateful to have Darrell as a part of the team! 

Learn more about our SQL DBA services here.