John-Eric Bonilla

Business Intelligence Analytic Developer at California Franchise Tax Board

Bio

John-Eric Bonilla: Navigating the Data Frontier

John-Eric Bonilla, a skilled Business Intelligence Analytic Developer for the State of California Franchise Tax Board, stands out for his ability to turn complex datasets into actionable insights, fostering organizational growth and efficiency. With a B.S. in Information Technology Management and an M.S. in Data Analytics, his academic background lays a robust foundation for his expertise. As a Ph.D. student in Information Science at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, John-Eric is not only deepening his knowledge but also actively contributing to the field of data analytics, focusing his research on innovative methodologies and their application in business.

John-Eric’s professional journey began with a solid grounding in business analytics. Recognizing the transformative power of data in decision-making, he directed his career toward maximizing this potential. His work, which encompasses both the technical facets of data analysis and the nuanced art of data presentation, caters to a diverse range of stakeholders. Additionally, as a Project Management Professional, he brings a structured and strategic approach to his projects.

Beyond the realm of data and analysis, John-Eric advocates for integrating soft skills into the technical program of data science. He stresses the significance of communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities — skills he deems as vital as Python for contemporary data scientists.

In his PhD program, John-Eric ambitiously aims to bridge the gap between academic research and practical business applications. He’s not just looking to contribute to the field of data science and analytics; he’s determined to redefine it. His path, blending scholarly rigor with professional ingenuity, is a unique narrative of a scholar-practitioner. For John-Eric, every dataset is a new journey, each analysis a story, and every insight a leap from theory to impactful reality.

Track: Soft Skills

Soft Skills for Data Scientists: Mastering the Art of Human Algorithms

In my presentation, ‘Soft Skills for Data Scientists: Mastering the Art of Human Algorithms,’ I delve into the often-overlooked but crucial aspect of data science: soft skills. Drawing on my background in Information Technology Management, Data Analytics, and as a Project Management Professional, I explore the irony that data scientists, adept in interpreting complex data, frequently struggle with effective communication. The talk highlights the importance of storytelling with data, teamwork in data-driven environments, and creative problem-solving. I use engaging anecdotes and interactive elements, such as role-playing and group discussions, to illustrate these concepts. This presentation is not just an academic exploration; it’s a call to action for data scientists to cultivate these essential skills. It aims to inspire a shift in perspective, underscoring that in the data-rich landscape of zeros and ones, mastering human algorithms is key to professional success and innovation.