Tell us about your background.
I’m a seasoned data scientist with over 9 years of industry experience. Currently working as a Business Intelligence Engineer at Amazon based out of Houston, Texas. My expertise lies in leveraging data to drive strategic business decisions.
My work aims to revolutionize supply chain operations by leveraging cutting-edge retail analytics and innovative inventory management techniques/tools. Working for Amazon Fresh, this initiative holds the potential to significantly impact various sectors of the economy, including retail, manufacturing, logistics, and beyond, thereby contributing to national economic growth and competitiveness. In addition to my academic and professional endeavors, I’m actively involved in exploring diverse topics ranging from general equality to social justice, finding inspiration for my work in unexpected places. I’m always striving to push the boundaries of data science and contributing to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on businesses and society as a whole.
How did you get interested in data science?
My interest in data science was ignited during my undergraduate studies when I took a course in statistical analysis. I was fascinated by how data could reveal patterns and drive decision-making. As I continued to build my skills, I became increasingly interested in how data science can be applied to solve real-world problems. I’m particularly drawn to using data to drive innovations in supply chain optimizations, and I am excited about the potential to contribute to meaningful advancements in this field.
What are you currently working on?
I have cultivated a deep expertise in data analytics, blending data-driven insights with strategic acumen to drive business growth. My experience began with a robust foundation in data analysis, where I honed my skills in statistical modeling and predictive analytics. I worked on solving multiple ambiguous business problems by leveraging advanced analytics tools to dissect consumer behavior, optimize inventory management, and enhance customer segmentation. In my current role, I’m spearheading a project that involves optimizing the forecasting model to predict future product promotions performance and to forecast demand more accurately with various parameters including upcoming promotions and events readiness, historical promotions and events performance, products at risk of low fullness that contributed towards launching successful promotion campaigns.
How did you you first discover WiDS?
I first discovered the WiDS while attending an internal analytics conference within Amazon. During the event, I came across a panel discussion where the host spoke about WiDS, which lead to me read more about WiDS’s mission and I was immediately motivated to support and inspire women in data science. I have always been passionate about promoting equal opportunities in the field of tech and I joined the WiDS Ambassador program to connect with other women in the field and gain insights from their experiences.
Have you been involved with WiDS since that first experience? If so, in what way?
In November 2024, I hosted the WiDS Houston Regional Event with a focus on the topic “Empowering Women at the Intersection of Wellness, Data, and AI” where I collaborated with industry leaders, organized expert panels and keynote speaker to explore how AI is revolutionizing the healthcare industry by enabling overall women wellness. Hosting the event was a rewarding experience that brought together a diverse community of emerging technologists, students, and leaders. The event was not just about knowledge sharing; it was a celebration of the strides women are making in data science and a call to keep pushing forward for greater inclusivity and innovation in the field. The event was a huge success by fostering meaningful connections and highlighting the important contributions women are making in data science.
How has WiDS made an impact on your life and/or work?
Discovering WiDS has been incredibly inspiring. It has not only broadened my network but also motivated me to become more involved in mentoring and supporting women pursuing careers in data science. WiDS focus is empowering women has strengthened my commitment to advocating for diversity in the tech industry and beyond!
What comes next for you? And what are your hopes for women in data science in the future?
I envision a future where women have equal access to leadership roles and are well-represented in all areas of data science, from research and academia to industry and entrepreneurship. Enhanced mentorship programs and targeted educational resources can help bridge the gender gap and foster the next generation of female data scientists.
Connect with Jayashree Raja.