Dr. Jody-Ann S. Jones
Machine Learning Engineer
Kingston
Summary
🏆 An accomplished Data Science leader, I bring over 12 years of progressive experience, combining sharp business acumen with a passion for delivering impactful data-driven insights. I've successfully steered numerous projects, deploying robust machine learning models and advanced data analysis to drive strategic decision-making and resolve complex business challenges.
📊 My strength lies in my ability to unravel the intricate story hidden within data, transforming abstract patterns into tangible recommendations that propel organizational strategies forward. I excel at communicating these insights, ensuring a clear understanding across diverse business audiences, and aligning technology with end-to-end project processes and business plans.
👏 Beyond my individual contributions, I take pride in fostering the growth of others. I've cultivated high-performing Data Analyst teams, nurturing their development through effective leadership and training.
✏️ I am an active contributor to the data science community, regularly sharing my knowledge through online blogs and contributing to projects on GitHub.
🎯 In every endeavor, I bring my commitment to excellence, my eagerness for innovative solutions, and my unyielding drive to turn data into actionable wisdom. As a confident, forward-thinking leader in the data science field, I am always ready for the next challenge. 🚀
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
7
7
years of post-secondary education
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Adjunct Lecturer, Data Science
The University of the Commonwealth Caribbean
Kingston
01.2021 - Current
- I designed and implemented a comprehensive curriculum for an online 14-week Python for Data Analysis course. This resulted in an engaging and accessible learning experience for undergraduate students of various academic backgrounds, equipping them with key data analysis skills.
- The course content I developed covered a wide range of data science topics, including Data Wrangling, Exploratory Data Analysis, Feature Engineering, Regression, Classification, Clustering, Dimensionality Reduction, and Hyperparameter Optimization. This breadth of knowledge-empowered students to understand and apply a wide range of data analysis techniques, enhancing their academic and professional potential.
- Through my instruction, students gained proficiency in essential data analysis skills, machine learning concepts, and data visualization techniques. This led to improved student performance and a significant increase in their confidence and competence in handling data-driven tasks.
- My teaching approach ensured that students not only learned the theoretical aspects of data science but also had ample opportunities to apply their knowledge through practical assignments and projects. This led to a deeper understanding of the course material and better-prepared students for real-world applications of their new skills.
Head of Data Science
Bluedot Insights
Kingston
09.2022 - 01.2023
- As the Head of Data Science, I led and managed an agile data team. I set ambitious yet achievable team goals, provided ongoing mentorship, and managed performance. My leadership resulted in enhanced team productivity and the successful execution of several key data projects.
- I actively collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for leveraging data in decision-making. This led to the development of robust strategies for data collection and analysis, enabling the company to make more informed, data-driven decisions.
- I developed and implemented machine learning models and algorithms to tackle complex business problems. These technological solutions resulted in streamlined processes, improved operational efficiency, and significant cost savings.
- Working closely with business stakeholders, I successfully identified and prioritized business needs and translated them into actionable data projects. My efforts led to improved alignment between data science initiatives and business objectives, ensuring our work was consistently value-additive.
- I effectively communicated complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences, explaining the benefits of incorporating machine-learning practices into existing business systems. As a result, there was increased buy-in and support for our data science initiatives, leading to more effective integration of these technologies within the company.
Director, Robeson American Center & EducationUSA
U.S. Department of State
Kingston
08.2016 - 09.2022
- I independently managed all American Spaces/EducationUSA projects and programs, while also collaborating with other Public Affairs team members. This led to the successful execution of numerous cultural and educational events and activities that significantly promoted U.S. public diplomacy in the region.
- I effectively translated the State Department’s public diplomacy voice into clear, concise information. This ensured cohesive messaging to our target audiences, enhancing understanding and engagement with U.S. foreign policy objectives.
- I created and curated engaging content for Facebook, Twitter, and MailChimp campaigns, including text, images, and video. This content strategy significantly increased brand awareness for EducationUSA and American Spaces, leading to a measurable increase in audience engagement.
- I launched the first website for EducationUSA Jamaica, where I wrote, edited, and localized content tailored to Jamaica's audience. This initiative increased web traffic and significantly enhanced the online presence of EducationUSA in Jamaica.
- Through targeted marketing campaigns across various platforms (Social Media, Newspaper, Radio, and TV), I was able to increase membership and retention rates. These optimized marketing strategies led to a significant expansion of our audience base and sustained engagement with our content and programs.
Lead Consulting Quantitative Researcher
Caribbean Policy Research Institute
Kingston
12.2015 - 08.2016
- I led an in-depth quantitative research project, investigating five key areas related to U.S.-Jamaica bilateral relations. My exhaustive analysis produced data-driven insights that were instrumental in informing policy recommendations aimed at strengthening these relations.
- I authored a comprehensive policy report based on my research, presenting clear and actionable suggestions on how to enhance security cooperation between the U.S. and Jamaica. This report was subsequently used as a foundational document in high-level diplomatic discussions.
- In my examination of democratic governance, I identified specific areas for improvement and suggested methods to embolden the democratic process in Jamaica. My recommendations resulted in increased support for democratic initiatives in the region.
- I investigated the state of trade and investment between the two nations and proposed a strategic plan to boost economic ties. My proposals were instrumental in shaping trade policy and stimulating economic growth.
- Through rigorous research, I proposed strategies to improve health and prosperity in Jamaica. These strategies have since been adopted by various agencies, leading to improved health outcomes and economic prosperity for local communities.
- Lastly, my research endorsed full and equal citizenship and proposed actionable steps to achieve this goal. This work has been fundamental in promoting equality and has led to positive changes in citizenship policies.
- Overall, my work contributed significantly to the strengthening of U.S.-Jamaica bilateral relations and had a measurable impact on foreign policy decisions.
Education
Ph.D. - Political Economy
Old Dominion University
Norfolk 08.2009 - 08.2014
Bachelor of Arts - Government
The University of Tampa
Tampa 01.2006 - 12.2007
Skills
Python
Certification
AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty
Timeline
AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty
05-2023
Udacity Machine Learning DevOps Engineer
04-2023
Head of Data Science
Bluedot Insights
09.2022 - 01.2023
Adjunct Lecturer, Data Science
The University of the Commonwealth Caribbean
01.2021 - Current
Director, Robeson American Center & EducationUSA
U.S. Department of State
08.2016 - 09.2022
Lead Consulting Quantitative Researcher
Caribbean Policy Research Institute
12.2015 - 08.2016
Ph.D. - Political Economy
Old Dominion University
08.2009 - 08.2014
Bachelor of Arts - Government
The University of Tampa
01.2006 - 12.2007
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