Richard, I have seen jobs available for Access Developers which require SQL knowledge and EXPERT developer skills. How can I determine when my Access developer skills are at the EXPERT level? Which types of jobs are best for beginner Access developers? Thanks!

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Reply from Richard Rost:

How do you know when you're an EXPERT Access developer? Well, when you start watching my 300-level classes or seminars and say, "this stuff is easy." Ha ha. I really don't know if there's a litmus test for being an EXPERT. Maybe I should write one. It's hard to tell because you can make some pretty awesome databases without even knowing how to program... but I'd say if you have mastered the techniques I teach, including action queries, VBA object manipulation, recordsets, and now the SQL material (especially the upcoming Level 2 seminar) then I'd consider you an expert.

What types of jobs are best? It's hard to find BIG companies that are looking to hire JUST Access developers. Usually to get an IT/database job with a big company, you also have to be skilled with back-end servers like SQL Server (which I'll be teaching this summer, hopefully) or Oracle.

Now, with small or mid-sized companies, there are always people businesses looking to have databases built or upgraded for them. In fact, while I was running my last business (PC sales, service, classroom training, etc.) I spent about 80% of my time building databases for my clients. I would recommend hiring yourself out as a contract developer. Maybe work through a temp agency at first, until you get a couple of projects under your belt, but marketing yourself is always the best way. Perhaps try contacting a couple of local computer stores or service agencies near you and let them know you're available for projects.