This month, we’re featuring MSBA class of ’22 graduate, Alex Fried. A native of Plainview, New York, Alex also completed his undergraduate degree at UW-Madison. Before joining the master’s program, his experience with analytics was primarily in a classroom setting during undergrad, specifically, two Gen Bus courses for analytics (306/307), and marketing research. Alex assisted a PhD student with research on gun brand responses and sentiment to mass shootings from Tweets sent out from stores across the country. He also continued with another project in collaboration with the same PhD candidate focused on eye tracking and banner ads on websites.
Alex now works for Spaulding Ridge as an Associate, Data Solutions Consultant where he does data engineering work in architecting and development, as well as data analytics and modeling for clients using primarily Snowflake, dbt, Azure Data Factory, Fivetran, Power BI, Tableau, and Salesforce CRMA.
Cutting Edge Curriculum
Alex says that the MSBA program provided him with exposure to a myriad of tools that real businesses are using today to enhance their data practices. He felt that the program allowed him to grow in the field, understand more about the industry, and connect with countless working professionals with endless knowledge. When asked what surprised him the most about the program, he said, “for it only being the third year, it was very well put together. The topics and courses were all super relevant and Program Director, Cody Baldwin, showed he’s willing to listen to industry experts and evolve the curriculum as needed.”
“Never Stop Learning”
To current and future students, Alex says: “Never stop learning. This is an ever evolving industry that is taking over the business world. Stay up to date with the current trends in the industry and find some online learning resources. You don’t have to pay for courses if you don’t want to, as there are countless videos on YouTube and LinkedIn that are aimed at helping you. Additionally, find people willing to invest in your growth and development. I have been super lucky to have that in my job where it’s encouraged to step into more advanced roles, learn new tools, and get certified in those tools.”
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