What do you do?

I currently work for a data science consulting firm, where we specialise in create ‘digital twin’ simulation models of industrial and mining operations. We work on a project to project basis and as such my day to day can vary based on the project we are currently working on. I currently work with and manage analysts in tackling both business and data problems in line with the project requirements while receiving guidance and support from the project lead (project manager). In general my day can be broken down into a combination of:

• Team Management: The team gets together to identify tasks, problems, and breakdown work in terms of priorities. This may also include supporting junior analysts in their current workflow, or reaching out to team leads to get direction/help on my current tasks.
• Data Work: This involves a larger portion of my day. In line with the day’s current tasks, a combination of data work around a simulation model may take place. This involves the use of SQL, Python, and more importantly, Microsoft PowerBi.
• Presentation and Documentation Work: The other half of data work is being able to communicate these effectively to the client. This can be in the form of building presentations or writing reports that encapsulate our data findings.
• Client Engagement: An incredibly important aspect of my role is meeting with clients to ensure that project requirements are understood, project’s expectations and scope are aligned across all stakeholders and overall that the client is happy with the progress and results of the project.

What’s been a highlight of your career so far?

My biggest highlight would probably be my recent promotion to Business Consultant. Having come from a pure science backing into a data science and consulting space can be intimidating, especially without strict experience in that space. I think this recent promotion has really recognised my ability to learn and adapt to the space. It motivates me to take on new challenges and problems with the confidence that I will be able to learn and adapt to these challenges.

Looking back, what advice would you give to current students?

In line with the previous question, my advice is to have confidence in your capacity to learn and adapt. We all hail from diverse backgrounds, and no individual is perfectly tailored for their career path or role. Instead of fretting over your level of experience or readiness for a particular role or task, embrace the assurance that you will acquire and master the necessary skills along the way. As I've grown in my professional journey, I've come to realise that most of us are navigating through uncertainties, whether on a broad scale or in our day-to-day tasks. Therefore, have faith in your ability to learn and adapt; few enter a role feeling completely equipped. Dive into new challenges with the certainty that you'll learn how to navigate them.

What challenges did you face in your transition from science to business and how did you overcome them?

Imposter syndrome. Initially I felt as though because I hadn’t studied anything related to business nor data science that it would be an impossible challenge for me to take on. But the fact of the matter is that we are adaptable. My opinion is that the various degrees, qualifications, etc that we have all worked hard for, represent your ability to learn and take on new information, not necessarily the subject matter itself. We all come from varied backgrounds and no one person is perfectly suited to their chosen career path.

Do you use AI platforms like ChatGPT in your daily work life?

Absolutely! AI platforms have revolutionized my daily tasks. From articulating coding or data challenges to restructuring how I communicate findings, they've been indispensable. Their presence instils confidence in tackling new coding or data challenges, knowing that with proper articulation, platforms like ChatGPT can provide invaluable support.

What pulled you towards your field?

Two major factors inspired my decision to transition from a pure science path to a career in consulting:

• Job availability: While science careers often lean heavily towards research and development, opportunities in this field are still evolving in South Africa. The competition for limited roles, often requiring a PhD for career advancement, was significant. However, I came to realize that my scientific background equipped me with valuable skills in analysis, problem-solving, and communication, which are highly transferable. Consulting emerged as an ideal avenue to leverage these abilities.
• Variation: Consulting offers a dynamic environment where work is project-based, ensuring each project presents unique challenges. This diversity prevents monotony, as each assignment demands innovative troubleshooting and problem-solving approaches. Embracing this variation makes every day an adventure and allows for continuous growth, eliminating any chance of stagnation.