The Practice of Our Profession: Reflections on Data Science in the Utility Industry
As the role of data science in the utility sector continues to evolve, so too does the identity of the professionals behind the work. This session will explore what it means to be a data scientist today—from navigating the impact of AI on job security, to communicating effectively across business and technical teams, to upholding ethics and professional standards.
Join fellow data science professionals in a candid, forward-looking conversation about:
- Communicating complex ideas to non-technical audiences
- Teaching data scientists to drive business change
- Defining standards, ethics, and responsibility in our field
- Balancing organizational goals with personal career paths
- Considering the future: Are we working ourselves out of a job?
Whether you’re looking to build stronger bridges between data and decision-makers, sharpen your communication skills, or contribute to the establishment of data science as a true profession—this session is for you.
Let’s talk openly about the practice of our profession, together.
Hesen Peng - Rappahannock Electric Cooperative/BrillIT
Gary Rector - Salt River Project


