Meet Our Learning Experts

Brian Knight is the owner and founder of Pragmatic Works and is a serial entrepreneur, starting other companies throughout his prolific career. He is the author of more than fifteen technical books and has spoken at dozens of conferences like PASS, SQL Connections, and TechEd. He has received a number of awards from the state, governor and press including the Business Ambassador Award (Governor) and Top CEO (Jacksonville Magazine). He is on the board of the region’s Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation.

Devin Knight is a Microsoft Certified Trainer, and President of Pragmatic Works. He was also a Microsoft Data Platform MVP for 9 years. His main focus is driving adoption of technology through learning. Devin is an author of nine books on Power Platform, Business Intelligence, and SQL Server. He has been selected as a speaker for conferences like Power Platform Summit, PASS Summit, SQLSaturdays, and Code Camps for many years. As a Jacksonville FL resident, Devin is a contributing member to several local user groups in the area.

Mitchell Pearson has been with Pragmatic Works for 11 years as a Data Platform Consultant, Trainer and Team Lead. Mitchell has authored books on SQL Server, Power BI and the Power Platform. Data Platform experience includes designing and implementing enterprise level Business Intelligence solutions with the Microsoft SQL Server stack (T-SQL, SSIS, SSAS, SSRS), the Power Platform, Microsoft Azure and Fabric.

As a Training Content Manager and Trainer with Pragmatic Works, Manuel uses his extensive knowledge of the BI Stack (SSRS, SSIS, SSAS etc.) to deliver exciting and engaging content. He also has experience with T-SQL, DAX, Power Platform and Azure Data Services. Manuel, however, is known for his impressive knowledge of the Microsoft Power BI tool. A native of Puerto Rico, He graduated from the University of Central Florida and loves being involved in the world of business intelligence. Manuel is a thought leader in the BI community.

Zane Goodman is a Trainer for Pragmatic Works specializing in Fabric, Azure and more. He's worked in skilled labor roles as well as the construction industry. Zane spent a lot of time in attics, on boom lifts, and in ditches making sure all the lights turned on properly. Now his primary focus is turning on the light for learning, helping our customers learn the ins and outs of Power Apps.

Emily graduated from Indiana University with a bachelor's degree in elementary education and the University of North Florida with a master's degree in educational leadership.  After 11 years of teaching varying grades (K-5) in Indiana and Florida, she joined the Pragmatic Works team as a Power BI Trainer.  Emily's primary goal is to provide engaging trainings that help customers gain confidence using Power BI. When not in the office, Emily enjoys camping, the beach, cheerleading, and visiting family in Indiana.

Monica Onyedika has been dedicated to instruction and coaching for over a decade. After earning her bachelor's degree from Ohio University and then her master’s degree from University of Louisville, Monica began her professional life in public education, teaching and coaching high school students. It was during those years that she sharpened both her instructional and leadership skills. At Pragmatic Works, she continues to use those skills to facilitate classes that provide people with enjoyable and educational experiences.

In her free time, Monica enjoys going to the beach, making candles, playing with her dog, traveling, and cheering on every sports team from her home state of Ohio.