"Stay curious and keep learning."

Meet Neha, Senior Data Scientist. In this inspiring interview with Finlay, she shares her journey into data science, the hurdles she’s overcome as a woman in tech, and her vision for fostering diversity in the industry.

Neha opens up about the valuable lessons she’s learned, offering insights for aspiring tech professionals and emphasising the need for inclusive environments to support underrepresented talent in the tech space.

A lifelong advocate for continuous learning, she believes that determination and curiosity are key to success: “With the right mindset, anyone can carve their path in this dynamic field.” Her passion for growth shines through as she actively pursues opportunities to expand her knowledge—whether through online courses, workshops, or industry conferences.

This interview is packed with inspiration, whether you're just starting your tech journey or looking for ways to diversify your team and create meaningful change in the industry.

Hey Neha, thanks so much for being part of Women Rock! We'd love to hear about your story so far. Can you tell us about yourself and your journey into the field of data science and what inspired you to pursue a career in this area?

My journey into data science began while writing my thesis in Cambridge. Surrounded by a vibrant academic community, I attended numerous open sessions at the university, captivated by discussions on the transformative power of data. These conversations, combined with my own need to analyse data from my research, ignited a curiosity that would shape my future.

Eager to dive deeper into this emerging field, I committed the following year to learning about data science through online courses and classroom instruction. I immersed myself in statistics and programming languages like Python and R, discovering the joy of working with data and uncovering patterns that could lead to meaningful insights. I pursued a few internships to bridge the gap between theory and practice, gaining hands-on experience in applying my newfound skills in real-world contexts.

After moving to Germany, I joined Blue Yonder, marking a significant turning point in my career. Here, I’ve spent the past five years working alongside some of the best minds in the industry. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities to learn, and I’m constantly inspired by the impact that data can have on decision-making and innovation.

Transitioning to data science was not without its challenges, especially coming from a non-computer science background. However, my passion and perseverance have propelled me forward. I believe that with determination and a willingness to learn, anyone can carve their own path in this dynamic field. Data science is not just a career for me; it’s a journey of discovery and endless possibilities.

What is your role and responsibilities in your current company?

As a Senior Data Scientist at my current company, I play a pivotal role in developing and maintaining our state-of-the-art products, which are utilised by over 50 Global customers. 

1. Data Analysis and Interpretation: I analyse complex datasets to extract meaningful insights that drive product enhancements and inform strategic decision-making. This involves leveraging statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms to identify trends and patterns.
2. Model Development: Design, develop, and validate predictive models that enhance our product offerings. By applying advanced analytics, I help optimise customer operations and improve overall performance.
3. Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams: I work closely with product managers, software engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure that our data-driven solutions align with business goals and customer needs. This collaboration is crucial for translating technical findings into actionable product features.
4. Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: As a senior member of the team, I mentor junior data scientists and contribute to their professional development. I also share insights and best practices to foster a culture of continuous learning within the team.
5. Performance Monitoring: Develop metrics and dashboards to monitor the performance of products in real-time. This helps ensure that we deliver reliable and impactful solutions to our customers.
6. Customer Engagement: Engaging with customers to understand their needs and challenges is essential. I gather feedback and insights that inform our product development processes, ensuring that we are responsive to the evolving demands of our client base.
   

Through these responsibilities, I contribute to the company's mission of delivering innovative, data-driven solutions that empower our customers to achieve their operational goals. Each project presents an opportunity to leverage the power of data, making a tangible impact on businesses around the globe.

What specific areas of data science and machine learning are you most passionate about, and how have you developed your expertise in those areas?

I am particularly passionate about data modelling and creating robust data pipelines, as I believe these areas are crucial for developing features that enhance the responsiveness of our products. Effective data modelling allows us to structure data in a way that maximizes its usability, while well-designed data pipelines ensure that our systems can efficiently process and integrate data for future feature development.

My interest in these areas has deepened through hands-on experience. I’ve learned that success in data science doesn’t happen overnight; it requires patience and dedication. I’ve invested time in collaborating with experts in the field, which has been invaluable. Working alongside seasoned professionals has not only helped me grasp the foundational concepts but also exposed me to best practices in feature engineering and data pipeline architecture.

To further develop my expertise, I continually seek out learning opportunities, whether through online courses, workshops, or industry conferences. Engaging with the data science community has also allowed me to stay updated on emerging trends and technologies, ensuring that I can apply the latest techniques in my work.

Ultimately, my goal is to harness the power of data to create innovative solutions that drive meaningful impact for our clients. By focusing on data modelling and pipeline development, I aim to lay the groundwork for future enhancements that will elevate our products and deliver exceptional value.

As a female data scientist, have you faced any unique challenges or obstacles in your career? How have you navigated and overcome them?

Throughout my career as a data scientist, I’ve faced various challenges, but I prefer to view my journey through a lens of resilience and support rather than gender bias. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside cooperative colleagues who were always willing to share their knowledge and help me grasp complex concepts. Their support played a significant role in my development.

One of the key challenges I encountered was balancing work with family responsibilities, especially as someone transitioning from a non-computer science background. Juggling the demands of home life and raising kids while learning coding and data science skills was certainly challenging. However, I approached this balance with determination and a commitment to my goals.

By creating a structured schedule and leveraging the support of my colleagues, I managed to navigate these hurdles. I focused on continuous learning and sought out resources that fit into my lifestyle, making the most of both my professional and personal commitments.

Ultimately, perseverance and a strong support network helped me succeed. I’m proud of the progress I’ve made and excited about the opportunities ahead, and I believe that everyone’s journey is unique, and shaped by their own challenges and triumphs.

In your opinion, what are some key steps organisations can take to promote and increase diversity in the tech industry, specifically within data science and machine learning roles?

Here are key steps organisations can take:

1. Inclusive Hiring Practices: Implementing hiring practices that actively seek to reduce bais. 
2. Outreach and Partnerships: Building relationships with women’s organisations, universities, and community programs can enhance recruitment efforts. Engaging with initiatives that focus on empowering women in STEM can create a wider pipeline of female talent ready to enter data science and machine learning fields.
3. Mentorship and Sponsorship Programs: Establishing mentorship programs specifically for women can provide the guidance and support they need to navigate their careers. Pairing junior women with experienced female leaders can help foster a sense of belonging and empowerment.
4. Flexible Work Policies: Offering flexible work arrangements, such as flexible hours, can significantly support women who are caregivers, making it easier for them to thrive in their roles.
5. Career Support Programs: Implementing “back to work” initiatives are essential for women who have taken career breaks, whether due to family responsibilities or relocation with spouses. Career re-entry workshops and training programs tailored for these women can help them refresh their skills and confidently re-enter the workforce.
6. Creating an Inclusive Culture: Fostering a culture that values diverse voices is critical. This can be achieved through diversity training focused on gender equity, encouraging open discussions about the challenges women face, and creating forums for women to share their experiences and insights.
7. Tracking and Accountability: Setting measurable diversity goals related to female representation in tech roles and regularly reporting on progress is vital.

These are my personal views and is nothing to do with any organization.

What advice would you give to someone looking to start a career in the tech industry?

Here’s some basic advice for those looking to enter the tech industry:

1. Start with the Basics: Build a strong foundation in core concepts. Whether it's programming, data analysis, or machine learning, understanding the fundamentals will serve you well. Online courses and tutorials can be great resources.
2. Embrace Continuous Learning: The tech field is always evolving. Stay curious and keep learning. Follow industry trends, read relevant articles, and consider pursuing certifications that align with your interests.
3. Hands-On Experience: Practical experience is invaluable. Work on personal projects, contribute to open-source initiatives or take on internships. These experiences not only enhance your skills but also help build a portfolio that showcases your work.
4. Network Actively: Connect with others in the industry. Attend meetups, webinars, and conferences to meet professionals and peers. Networking can lead to mentorship opportunities and potential job openings.
5. Don’t Fear Failure: Mistakes are part of the learning process. Embrace challenges and view setbacks as opportunities for growth. Resilience is key in the tech industry.
6. Find a Mentor: Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and insights based on their own experiences. A mentor can help you navigate your career path and offer valuable advice.
7. Cultivate Soft Skills: While technical skills are crucial, soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are equally important. Being able to collaborate effectively with others can set you apart.
8. Stay Diverse in Your Learning: Explore different areas of tech. Whether it’s data science, software development, cybersecurity, or UX design, gaining exposure to various fields can help you find your passion.
9. Focus on Impact: Consider how you can make a difference through technology. Whether it’s developing solutions that improve lives or contributing to social good, having a purpose can motivate you in your career.
10. Be Patient and Persistent: Breaking into the tech industry can take time, and the path may not be linear. Stay focused on your goals, be persistent, and keep pushing forward.

Entering the tech industry can be a rewarding journey, and with dedication and the right mindset, you can thrive and make a meaningful impact.

What is your favourite song?

My favourite song is Stairway to Heaven - Led Zeppelin

What book would you recommend for our Women Rock bookshelf? 

The Fountainhead Ayn Rand

Finally, could you leave us with your favourite quote?

“Challenges are gifts that force us to search for a new centre of gravity. Don’t fight them. Just find a new way to stand.” -Oprah Winfrey

Interviewed by Finaly Bright