"As well as computer scientists, I know of several DBAs who were once professional musicians, actors, hairdressers, artists, scientists, athletes, soldiers and even solicitors and architects. They all make good DBAs too. If only developers were able to bring such a range of skills, experience and knowledge to the job!"
The trouble is, not everyone can program. I'm a developer, and I've met many people in IT that by their own admission cannot program in any language - and I've certainly encountered developers that really should be doing something else! Your statement, quoted above, implies that anyone can become a DBA
It implies only that good DBAs come with the hard-won ability to find out and learn new skills rapidly. Despite their wide range of backgrounds, the DBAs and Database developers I respect are 'quick on their feet' to acquire new skills. In a sense, anyone can become a good DBA, no matter their background or experience, but it takes a great deal of work and application to get there. One of the best DBAs I ever worked with, and one of the most expert, had once been a champion weightlifter and policeman who specialized in responding to violent incidents. He was brilliant at moving servers around and we always got served first in nightclubs. His background gave him the tenacity and determination that he applied to learning the role of DBA. The sight of him marching grimly towards me after I'd done a small but necessary modification to a production server is one I shall carry with me to the grave.
Best wishes,
Phil Factor