The newest installment in our Q&A sequence with girls in knowledge options Andrea Barber, a healthcare and knowledge analyst skilled. (Learn our earlier Q&A right here.)

Andrea Barber found her love for knowledge and analytics whereas working within the healthcare business. Along with her present function as a drugs administration coordinator with the Nationwide Well being Corps, she serves because the co-director of know-how for the Pittsburgh chapter of the nonprofit GetWITit, the place she has helped advance initiatives empowering girls within the know-how subject. Andrea just lately launched Coding in Confidence, a YouTube channel and neighborhood aimed toward serving to girls – particularly these new to tech or analytics – construct confidence with Python. “The objective is to interrupt down technical ideas into digestible, beginner-friendly classes whereas making a supportive house,” she explains. Andrea holds a B.S. in enterprise intelligence and analytics from DeVry College, in addition to certifications in Python and knowledge evaluation. You may comply with her on LinkedIn.

What impressed you to decide on a profession in knowledge?

I began in a profession path that paid nicely, however I noticed the way forward for affect and alternative was in know-how, so I shifted my main to knowledge analytics and science. My expertise in healthcare confirmed me how knowledge can uncover disparities and drive change, and as a future knowledge scientist, I’m obsessed with guaranteeing all communities are included within the technological wave reworking healthcare.

Who’s your favourite feminine function mannequin? 

Dr. Pleasure Buolamwini has been an enormous inspiration to me. Her work in exposing bias in AI motivates me to remain obsessed with utilizing knowledge ethically and equitably. Seeing her persistence jogs my memory to maintain going, even when the trail is difficult

What has been the largest problem in your profession to this point? 

My largest problem was navigating that in-between stage of getting the abilities and certifications however not but the skilled title. As an alternative of getting discouraged, I centered on constructing actual initiatives, volunteering in data-focused roles, and persevering with to be taught, turning what may have been a setback right into a basis of expertise.

Finest recommendation you’d give to different girls aspiring to work in knowledge?

Deal with knowledge like a language, be taught to talk it little by little, and shortly it can inform highly effective tales that solely you may carry to life. Your distinctive perspective isn’t a weak point, it’s your superpower, the lens that reveals insights others may miss. Belief your voice, keep curious, and bear in mind the world wants the tales solely you may inform by way of knowledge.

The place do you see the way forward for girls in knowledge?

Ladies in knowledge are shaping the long run by combining know-how and creativity to drive actual affect. I see us main with curiosity and innovation, particularly in areas like healthcare and fairness.

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