Cybera has launched its first cohort of the Applied Data Science Lab, which gives Alberta companies and budding data scientists the chance to trial a real-world data exploration project. This work integrated learning program has paired eight emerging data scientists with two Alberta based businesses to carry out a six-month data science / machine learning project . The Lab is being offered by Cybera, Alberta’s research and education network facilitator, as part of its mandate to support skills growth in the province through the use of digital technology.
The emerging data scientists — recent post-secondary and boot camp graduates from across Alberta — have been assigned to real-world industry projects in a paid, work-integrated learning environment. To help bridge their skill gaps as they move from theoretical to practical data science work, the interns will receive mentorship from Cybera experts as well as industry partners from Alberta’s tech ecosystem.
As well as helping emerging talent gain real-world experience, the Applied Data Science Lab also gives Alberta companies an opportunity to trial a data project. Over the next six months, the interns will work with two growing Alberta organizations who are looking to adopt and develop their data science capabilities, but don’t yet have the internal capacity to do so. These companies include:
- Convenient Business Solutions: A software development and optical systems consulting company located in Edmonton, with clients around the world, including Asia and Europe. The company has developed and commercialized business tools related to property, workflow, human resources, and smart city management, and is looking to leverage AI and machine learning to improve the services it offers to clients.
- Ziing Final Mile: A Calgary-based logistics provider operating across Canada, Ziing helps last mile delivery companies optimize their services and reduce costs. It does this by providing insights on cost efficient delivery planning, integrated processing services, and marketing opportunities. Through this project, Ziing is looking to develop and optimize its operations through predictive solutions.
The cohort officially kicked off on Thursday, October 20, during Edmonton Unlimited’s Startup Week. The launch event not only allowed the participating companies and interns to meet and learn more about the scope of their six month project, it also enabled the broader ecosystem partners to discuss ways to diversify the province’s economy and keep tech talent in Alberta. These supporters include Alberta Innovates, one of the primary funders of this project, and ISAIC, an Alberta-based cloud infrastructure provider for the Applied Data Science Lab.
This is the first of several work-integrated cohorts being offered by Applied Data Science Lab over the next year and a half, with additional two to six-month cohorts occurring in the spring and winter of 2023. Applications are now open for these programs. Companies that apply early will also receive an assessment to help support the success of their data science ideas and projects.
To learn more visit cybera.ca/adsl