Charting New Waters: From Maritime Navigator to Data Scientist at Aiffel?

Hello, Kwang-Yong! Could you briefly introduce yourself?

After setting foot on a ship as a navigator for the first time, I never dreamed I would spend over 32 years in this field. I've come to realize just how important that first step was. 🌊

Including 5 years of onboard experience and living in the U.S. as an expatriate, most of my younger years were spent in the maritime industry. I've worked as a business analyst, consultant, and product manager at an IT solution company, developing various shipping-related solutions. If you're interested in learning more about my experience, please check out my LinkedIn profile.

How did you become interested in the data scientist role?

While working in the maritime field, I found great joy in manipulating and analyzing data using Excel. The process of utilizing data for work through analysis and visualization was thrilling. However, every time I attempted to start studying data analysis and Python, my priorities at work and lack of willpower held me back. 😅

That changed when I took on a data analysis + ML project, gradually delving deeper into the subject and experiencing the challenges of successful ML projects firsthand. This led me to think, 'It's time to study more seriously.'

So, what made you choose Aiffel?

As the saying goes, where there's a will, there's a way. Entering 2024, I decided to seriously start learning data analysis and ML, and that's when Aiffel caught my radar. The timing was perfect, and the curriculum exactly what I was looking for. I declared to my company, "Boss, I'll be studying for the next 6 months." My family thought it was a bit strange, 😂 but I was serious!

What is the learning process like at Aiffel?

The Aiffel curriculum is detailed here. The learning process is truly unique, emphasizing self-study and mutual assistance. Learning in a metaverse space together was a new and enjoyable experience. 🚀

Studying nodes, undertaking mini-projects on my own, and solving quests was immensely fulfilling. Without full concentration, it's impossible to keep up, and although it's remote, the management is more thorough than in-person classes.

I personally really enjoyed the real-time education and coffee chats.

What do you think are the advantages of the Aiffel course?

Aiffel's curriculum is truly attractive, covering a wide range of topics from data analysis, statistics, ML, DNN, CV, NLP, recommendation systems, to MLOps. 📊🧠 It's incredible to think that all of this can be learned in just 4 months! If you enjoy focused, intensive study, Aiffel is perfect for you. 🚀

The depth of the learning process, understanding the material provided through nodes, applying it to actual code, and completing mini-projects gives a sense of achievement. 🛠️

Moreover, Aiffel offers numerous opportunities to participate in seminars, research groups, and study clubs, infinitely broadening the horizon of learning. 🌟

Were there any aspects of the Aiffel course you found lacking?

Having a mentor/mentee program would have been great. 👥 While ChatGPT can solve most coding and technical problems, concerns about the future and career need more assistance.

In the workplace, having a knowledgeable mentor by your side is invaluable. It would have been beneficial to have more opportunities for periodic communication with experienced professionals in the field. 🗣️

What's the atmosphere like at Aiffel? What makes it appealing?

Having a mentor/mentee program would have been great. 👥 While ChatGPT can solve most coding and technical problems, concerns about the future and career need more assistance.

In the workplace, having a knowledgeable mentor by your side is invaluable. It would have been beneficial to have more opportunities for periodic communication with experienced professionals in the field. 🗣️

If you had to describe Aiffel in one sentence, what would it be?

Aiffel is a powerful stepping stone on your journey to becoming a data scientist! 💎

Was there a moment during the course that you found particularly rewarding?

Transitioning from a product manager who could only make PowerPoint presentations to someone who enjoys solving problems with Python over 4 months was incredibly gratifying. Previously, I could only marvel at the results of AutoML projects, but now I have a deeper understanding and confidence to tackle Python coding head-on. 💪

Do you have any goals after graduation?

I aspire to become a maritime logistics AI product manager.

I want to continue exploring business opportunities that integrate AI/ML technology with my domain experience. While I'm eager to learn more, I must also consider my livelihood.

Any final thoughts you'd like to share?

As I prepare for the final Aiffelthon, I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported me. 🙏 I value challenge over perfection, believing that perfection is an impossible state. Starting and gradually improving is the best approach. 🌱

Magic doesn't happen overnight, but each day builds towards a better tomorrow. I encourage everyone to brave the challenges. There's no such thing as failure, only learning. 🌟

Link to original posting: https://blog.naver.com/modulabs_official/223413250689

Aiffel Datat Scientist Campus: https://ds.aiffel.io/