NEXT Talks: So You Want to Be a Data Scientist


No doubt about it: data science is the hot job in GovCon. But what does it take to break into this incredibly competitive and often opaque field?

Join us at our inaugural NEXT Talks on Tuesday, May 28th and meet our Virginia-based data science team, who—in different stages of their careers—successfully navigated the data science maze and now offer firsthand advice, tips, and insight on how to get started in data science. We’ll take an in-depth look at the field, the challenges you’ll face, and the skills you need to bring to it.



WHO SHOULD ATTEND: Anyone who wants to turn their passion for data, technology, analytics, and innovation into a data science or data engineering career (especially in the Defense and Intelligence Communities). And if you’ve already got a foothold in data science, this is a great opportunity to network and exchange ideas with your peers.

WHAT TO EXPECT: Insightful, engaging conversation in a fun, casual atmosphere. We’ll start with a free-form panel discussion, followed by audience Q&A. Our NEXT Talks also feature technical breakout sessions presented by our Data Science team on real-world examples of how we apply AI/Machine Learning in the National Security community.

WHAT YOU’LL WALK AWAY WITH:

  • Resources to get you started
  • Knowledge of how AI/ML is being applied in the National Security space
  • Inspiration and community!

AGENDA

This is a free event!

Event Parking: There is a parking garage at 1800 Galleria Drive. Once parked, follow the signs to the 1800 Building. Convene is located in the lobby behind the security desk. You will receive a parking validation voucher at the event.

5:30-6pm: Meet & Greet

Light hors d’oeuvres / refreshments (and adult beverages…bring your ID) will be served throughout the NEXT Talks.

6-6:50pm: Introduction & Panel Discussion

You’ll learn about NT Concepts, the projects we work on, and how we use agile AI and our Machine Learning Lifecycle to rapidly deliver mission success. Our team will discuss their personal journeys into data science, and share their day-to-day experiences applying advanced analytical techniques and technologies to our nation’s hardest data challenges.

7-7:25pm: Breakout Session I

  • Expertise: Inside a Neural Network—Zach Swartz
  • Use Case: Fire Perimeter Extraction & Prediction—Meredith Gregory

7:30-7:55pm: Breakout Session II

  • Expertise: Data Engineering 101 —Zach Mostowsky
  • Use Case: Predictive Health Maintenance from a Systems Engineering Perspective (or “Data Science and Machine Learning on Actual Machinery”)—Mike Evanoff

8-8:30pm: Network with our Data Science & Talent Teams



MEET OUR DATA SCIENCE TEAM (VA)

Melonie K. Richey

MODERATOR

Melonie K. Richey
Advanced Technology Manager

Mike Evanoff

PANELIST / BREAKOUT II

Mike Evanoff
Data Scientist

 

Meredith Gregory

PANELIST / BREAKOUT II

Meredith Gregory
Data Scientist

Zach Mostowsky

PANELIST / BREAKOUT I

Zach Mostowsky
ML Engineer

Kendall Ocasio

PANELIST / BREAKOUT II

Kendall Ocasio
Data Engineer

Stefani Rangbar

PANELIST

Stefani Rangbar
Data Scientist

Zach Swartz

PANELIST / BREAKOUT I

Zach Swartz
Data Scientist

Location:
Convene, Tysons Corner

Date:
May 28 - 29, 2019

Time:
9:30 pm - 12:30 am

Address:
1800 Tysons Boulevard
Tysons Corner, McLean, VA 22102

Driving directions External link to Google Maps for directions