The life of a DBA is often led in isolation.  In many IT organizations, you’ll have a variety of disciplines, programmers, analysts, systems administrators, network engineers, project managers, etc.  And then there’s the DBA, often working alone, wedged between the developers and the SAs.  Maybe we like it that way.  We’re captains of our respective ships, doing things our way.  But speaking from first-hand experience, working alone is a great way to foster a false sense of security.  It is the input from a variety of backgrounds and experiences that lends quality and credibility to any solution. 

At Database Specialists, I am fortunate to be surrounded by a great group of skilled yet unselfish cohorts.  I like to think I know a thing or two about what it takes to be a good DBA, but the collective intelligence of the group far exceeds any level I’ll ever be able to reach by myself. 

What is my point?  Well, if you are as fortunate as me, then do yourself a favor and be a good team player.  If not, then I encourage you to reach out to other DBAs.  Oracle user groups like NoCOUG, RMOUG, and PSOUG are great for learning from other DBAs, networking, and sharing your own skill set.  Become a member.  Attend the meetings.  Contribute to their journals.  Volunteer your time.  You won’t regret it.