Our employee spotlight is our latest blog series where we get up-close and personal with some amazing team members making a difference at VEERUM. We have always attributed the success and growth of our organization to the strength and diversity of our team. So, we’re excited to highlight a hardworking team member each week.
This week, I was lucky enough to sit down with VEERUM’s Data Scientist, Jen Wei, to learn more about her role, what motivates her, and how she sees VEERUM making a positive impact on our client’s digital journeys. Meet Jen, rock climber, data extraordinaire, and the type of person who runs for fun.
Tell me about your role and what you do at VEERUM.
I joined VEERUM in April of 2021 as a Data Scientist on the Research and Development (R&D) team. I build machine learning models to solve important problems for our clients. My primary focus in this role is developing and training 3D object detection models in a production environment. Our artificial intelligence (AI) projects are built on the idea that you develop your AI model in a production environment so you don’t have to do it twice. This is one thing that VEERUM does very well, as many companies struggle to deploy a machine learning model into the production environment. This is essential for success, it makes the integration to production seamless.
What makes your role unique?
It’s very challenging, like nothing I’ve ever done before. I have the opportunity to build AI systems and develop AI architecture, in addition to using the systems we build to solve client problems. I have to analyze client problems from a multitude of perspectives, because our clients have a variety of different needs and come from different industries. Overall, it’s exciting because we have only just scratched the surface of what is possible, there’s so much potential.
How did you get into data science?
I’ve always found mathematics as the easiest way to express myself. Growing up, I struggled in language classes, but math always felt so natural to me. I could express myself through creative solutions to difficult problems, so I always felt the most comfortable communicating with my teachers through math.
Working with data and using it as a way to communicate is incredibly satisfying for me. I’m always asking, “how can I make this process as efficient and effective as possible?” This helps me to zero in on the solution. There’s always room for improvement in artificial intelligence (AI), but once I find a process that works, it’s truly the best feeling in the world.
What are you passionate about?
I love climbing, ballet, and running. It’s how I express myself physically through solving challenges. Bouldering is an excellent intellectual challenge and involves a lot of problem-solving, and it also helps me recognize my limitations and how I can improve. During the pandemic, I’ve been doing online ballet classes and prioritizing movement. I enjoy running along the Elbow River. I actually love running when it snows. The way the snow absorbs sound makes it very peaceful and therapeutic.
What do you like about working at VEERUM?
I really appreciate the level of freedom and trust from the leadership team. I’ve been given the opportunity to work on what I’m passionate about. I enjoy working from home and the remote flexibility is great.
Want to know more about VEERUM? Check out the About page! Interested in joining our team? With offices in Calgary, Toronto, Houston, and remote working opportunities, we’re growing fast, so check out our Careers page for more information.