Building a Career in Data Science in Calgary: What You Need to Know
Why Data Science is a Growing Career Path
Data science is more than just crunching numbers—it’s about solving real-world problems. According to Josh Rainbow, businesses are increasingly fueling innovation through data, creating demand for skilled professionals.
Pathways Into the Industry
University Programs:
University of Calgary: Offers Master’s & Bachelor’s programs in Data Science & Analytics.
SAIT & MRU: Provide applied data science programs aligned with industry needs.
Self-Learning & Upskilling:
Many professionals from oil & gas, engineering, and finance are transitioning into data science.
Online courses, bootcamps, and hackathons are excellent ways to gain experience.
Community & Networking:
Events like YYC DataCon, Tech Thursdays, and Platform Calgary meetups offer excellent networking opportunities.
Calgary’s startup scene is rich with mentorship and collaboration opportunities.
Key Advice for Newcomers
Get involved: Join local data science groups and attend meetups.
Build a portfolio: Work on real-world projects to showcase your skills.
Network strategically: Connect with professionals, ask for coffee chats, and stay engaged in the ecosystem.
With Calgary’s growing demand for data professionals, now is the best time to step into the industry and make an impact.
