Ever changing. Mechanical Engineer to Data Science learning manager.
My career started as a mechanical engineer working in the defence industry on submarine systems. Exciting start, working on advanced technologies that have since found their way into common commercial applications. Noise cancellation headphones as an example. After a few years as an engineer, I decided to go to graduate school and get my MBA. The business degree open doors to new opportunities and I transitioned into the telecommunications industry. I began with Lucent Technologies in their sales training organization, then Alcatel-Lucent and then Nokia. About 3 years ago I took an online class on data visualization and something clicked. I have always been interested in data and making decisions with data. Since then I have been constantly taking classes in data science, business intelligence and Artificial Intelligence and essentially created a Data Science learning and development position in our learning organization - Nokia EDU.
I wrote about my experience with learning how to handle data and becoming "data literate" in an article here: https://bedatalit.com/2021/08/12/from-data-traveler-to-data-fluent/
Data Science & Analytics Specialist
My current role, "Data Science & Analytics Specialist" has two main areas of focus. Learning and Development - this portion of my job identifies content and develops learning programs for Data Science topics. Of course there is an emphasis on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, but also Math and Statistics, Statistical Programming and Data Visualization, all critical components necessary to transform data into business insights and strategic advantage. The other part of my job is where I get the opportunity to apply Data Science concepts, tools and techniques. Automated business intelligence dashboards, descriptive, diagnostic and predictive modelling.
Continuous learning and development and application.
I'm a lifelong learner. In this ever changing world you need to continually develop and stay current. Since I'm in charge of creating data science learning paths, I try to consume as much training as possible so that I can provide first hand guidance to other learners. I have to recommend lots of learning offers and I think students appreciate that I have first hand knowledge of the content I'm advocating. As an engineer, problem solving is part of my DNA. I really enjoy the opportunity to apply what I have learned. So overall my job has great balance - there is always a challenge.
Know yourself and what you like to do and make that part of your job.
It's a cliché, but I think that it's true. Do something you like or even love, and you will never work a day in your life. I really enjoy what I do and so it's not work. I would recommend spending some time and figuring out what are you passionate about. What are the things you like to do and what do you find rewarding? I would even take a personality evaluation. Being aware of your preferences will be tremendously helpful in guiding your career path.
Data Science Achievement Program
As part of the Nokia Education organization (Nokia EDU) I developed a Data Science Achievement program. It's a recognition program for advance learning in many areas of Data Science. We just reached a milestone of 1000 students with Achievement Badges. The 4th Industrial Revolution runs on data, and I'm proud of this programs contribution to preparing Nokia for the demands and opportunities of this new revolution. Looking forward to 2000 Badges in the future.
