Here's a list of the main prominent SQL Server DBA professionals, along with brief descriptions of their contributions, areas of expertise, and where you can find more information about them online -Part I

Brent Ozar

Contributions: Renowned for making Microsoft SQL Server faster and more reliable. Authored numerous articles and developed tools like the First Responder Kit.

Expertise: SQL Server performance tuning, consulting, and training.

Website: brentozar.com

Joe Celko

Contributions: Participated in the ANSI X3H2 Database Standards Committee, contributing to SQL-89 and SQL-92 standards. Authored several books on SQL and over 1,200 articles.

Expertise: Relational database theory and SQL standards.

Website: Joe Celko - Wikipedia

Glenn Berry

Contributions: Focuses on improving SQL Server performance and scalability. Shares insights and performance tips through his blog.

Expertise: SQL Server performance tuning and hardware selection.

Website: Glenn's SQL Server Performance Blog:

Denny Cherry

Contributions: Provides insights on building robust database servers and maintaining them. Shares knowledge on various IT topics, including SQL Server.

Expertise: SQL Server administration, performance tuning, and security.

Website: SQL Server with Mr. Denny

Kendra Little

Contributions: Offers training and resources on SQL Server topics, including performance tuning and database design.

Expertise: SQL Server performance tuning, indexing, and database development.

Website: Kendra Little's SQL Server Blog

Paul Randal

Contributions: Known for deep technical knowledge of SQL Server internals. Provides training and consulting services.

Expertise: SQL Server internals, disaster recovery, and performance tuning.

Website: SQLskills - Paul Randal

Kimberly L. Tripp

Contributions: Specializes in SQL Server indexing and performance tuning. Offers training and consulting services.

Expertise: Indexing strategies, database design, and performance tuning.

Website: SQLskills - Kimberly L. Tripp

Grant Fritchey

Contributions: Active in the SQL Server community, sharing knowledge through blogs, books, and presentations.

Expertise: SQL Server performance tuning, execution plans, and database development.

Website: The Scary DBA

Itzik Ben-Gan

Contributions: Recognized for deep understanding of T-SQL and SQL Server programming. Authored several books and articles.

Expertise: T-SQL querying, programming, and SQL Server internals.

Website: Itzik Ben-Gan - SQL Server Author & Instructor

Adam Machanic

Contributions: Developed tools like sp_WhoIsActive and shares insights on SQL Server performance.

Expertise: SQL Server performance tuning, development, and monitoring.

Website: SQLblog - Adam Machanic