Over fifty attendees gathered on November 27 to hear from a panel of current data science industry experts and network with professionals in the industry. The panelists were members of the Data Science Advisory Board, a unique organization consisting of both academics and industry professionals that offers feedback, insights, and direct networking opportunities to students in the Master’s of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence program.
“This exclusive yearly event was just one example of how this program connects students directly with industry professionals and encourages collaboration across different sectors,” says M. Tamer Özsu, University Professor and co-director of the Data Science graduate program.
L-R: M. Tamer Özsu, Miguel Lacerda, Alex Coman, Eric Morrow, Jeff Hatcher
The event included five panelists: Alex Coman, director of Engineering for Google Ads; Jeff Hatcher, director of Advanced Analytics at the Canadian Institute for Health Information Miguel Lacerda, senior data scientist and head of the Data Science and AI Academy at Balyasny Asset Management; Bethany L., a specialist at the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, and Eric Morrow, the managing director of the Enterprise Data Science & AI group within BMO’s Data and Analytics organization.
Panelists spoke to their expertise on diverse industries including finance, healthcare, and technology, sharing their invaluable knowledge, experience, and practical advice with graduate students in the program. Attendees were able to ask questions about topics including large language models, the skills necessary to succeed in current data science and AI roles, and potential career opportunities.
To learn more about the master’s in Data Science program, which is taking applications until January 15, 2025, visit the program website.