Don't feel estranged there Glenn. I too started with MS Access and dBase databases! I've since moved along to SQL Server, Oracle, DB2, and Informix. Yup... been all over as far as those go. I also admit that a "down and dirty" deal can be easily done using MS Access, but I also scoff at its use for much else than personal or really quick-fix solutions (extremely temporary).
Don't fret over using VB6 or any of the VB languages with a database. Its extremely common for any business to use VB with a database. Mostly, database work doesn't demand cutting-edge speeds that C/C++ or other lower level languages offer. Working a GUI with a database should be pretty casual unless there is an explicit real-time need for the speed. Even then, you will wait on the database.
I understand the wait period for IT. I'm a professional software engineer and we have a HUGE plate filled with projects eagerly awaiting our time!
Don't fret over using VB6 or any of the VB languages with a database. Its extremely common for any business to use VB with a database. Mostly, database work doesn't demand cutting-edge speeds that C/C++ or other lower level languages offer. Working a GUI with a database should be pretty casual unless there is an explicit real-time need for the speed. Even then, you will wait on the database.
I understand the wait period for IT. I'm a professional software engineer and we have a HUGE plate filled with projects eagerly awaiting our time!