Is SQL enough for a career?

I only know and work with T-SQL, is it possible to make a career with just SQL database knowledge? Or do I need to expand my skillset to survive as a dev?

Comments

[Hans-Petter Eitvet]

I agree with Daniel.
SQL as the only skills, will limit the jobs you can get.
But if database is your thing and no other language is interesting, look into topics like database design, indexing, query optimization, performance. Be the best in that field and that will make a great career.
The world still runs on data and really good database people are rare.

[Jack]

Okay cool, thank you, what can database people do other than data science ?

[Helen Anderson]

Data Science isn't the only career option.

You can move into Business Intelligence, Data Engineering, Data Analysis and Reporting, Data Warehousing and Architecture, Database Migration to the Cloud, and leading projects that build Data Models.

[Jack]

Okay great, thank you very much that would all require more than SQL I imagine ?

[Helen Anderson]

I'm not sure if you're referring to technical skills and knowledge, or soft skills so I'll cover both.

Every job requires soft skills, it's not enough to only crunch SQL code all day. For all the jobs I've listed you will need:

• Time management and organisational skills
• Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication, including business process documentation and standards writing
• Able to quickly comprehend, analyse, define and describe complex business requirements

As far as technical skills you may need to upskill in these areas:

Reporting tools for Analysts/BI:

• SSRS or
• PowerBI or
• Tableau or
• MicroStrategy or
• Qlik Sense

Integration and ETL tools for Data Warehousing/Engineering:

• SSIS or
• DBT or
• Airflow

Database modelling and design skills for Data Warehousing and Architecture

Performance monitoring and tuning for Database Administration

• Knowledge of High Availability solutions, such as Mirroring, Replication, Clustering, & Always On (Availability Groups)
• Understanding of database security users and roles
• Basic performance monitoring and analysis of SQL queries
• Patching and upgrades Development knowledge of APIs, Python is becoming more desirable for more technical Data Engineering roles but isn't essential for every company.

[Jack]

This is so great, thank you!

[Daniel Volquardsen]

No, you defenitly need to expand your skillset

[Jack]

Thank you for your answer