MAGIC’s Big Data Bootcamp is an entirely virtual, 8-week course that introduces students to concepts in and applications of data science. Data science is a rapidly growing field with a high demand for skilled workers. Through this course, students will be introduced to Python, basic data science, and machine learning techniques that will provide them with a foundational understanding of data science and prepare them for further learning.
Thanks to generous funding provided by the Truist Foundation, we are able to offer this course to Carroll County residents totally free of charge! Classes take place once a week in evenings, with a couple of self-paced projects to be completed throughout the course. It is entirely accessible to anyone with an internet connection who may be looking to make a career change, develop their existing skill set, or just learn more about data science and the many opportunities it offers!
Why Data Science?
Data scientists are highly paid and highly sought after in almost every industry you can think of. Why? Because data is everywhere! And, when properly utilized, it can reveal trends and statistics that can help an organization make informed decisions.
Education in data science doesn’t limit you to one or two positions in just a handful of industries. An understanding of data science opens the door to a wide variety of careers, including:
- Data Scientist, Architect, or Engineer
- Machine Learning Engineer or Scientist
- Marketing Analyst
- Statistician
- Business Analyst
- Clinical Data Manager
You’ll find these positions scattered across industries: health care, finance, advertising, business, intelligence, and more.
Why Big Data Bootcamp?
This course will introduce the basic concepts and techniques necessary for a career in data science. You will need a general understanding of computer concepts. Some previous experience with programming languages is helpful, but not at all necessary. At the end of the 8 week workshop, you will walk away with a basic understanding of:
- Python
- Web scraping and data mining
- Machine learning algorithms
- Data science libraries and toolsets
- Practical, real world applications for data science and analysis
The only thing you’ll need for this course is a computer with a browser and internet access! Don’t have one? MAGIC has a limited number of laptops available for loan during the workshop. Ask us about our availability prior to course start!
Meet the Instructor
Olga Perera
Olga Perera is a passionate data scientist with an extensive background in natural language processing, data engineering, and cloud computing with working knowledge of AWS platform. Ms. Perera completed her MS in Applied Data Science from Syracuse University and is currently pursuing a PhD in Information Systems with specialization in Data Analytics and Decision Support from Dakota State University.
Ms. Perera is also a recipient of an MS Applied Data Science Award from Syracuse University, a Graduate Research Award from Dakota State University, as well as a Most Innovative Solution Award, Machine Learning Hackathon from NASA GRC. She was also listed among the Top Data Science Influencers of 2020!