The Evolving World of Data & AI Careers
Olamide Jolaoso CRB
|Data Science MSc|Analytics Leader & Coach|Global Speaker|Certified Retail Banker|Storyteller|
Finding Clarity in the Data & AI Space
In 2017, I stepped into the world of data without a structured guide on where to start. Like many, I found myself exploring Business Intelligence tools like Tableau and Power BI, relying on existing dashboards to extract insights—without truly understanding where I fit within the ecosystem.
A few months later, a beginner’s data science training program helped me connect the dots. It was a game-changer. For the first time, I could see the boundaries between different data roles, and I realized that navigating the world of analytics, data science, and AI required more than just technical skills—it required clarity.
Fast-forward to today, and I have counseled countless professionals on?choosing the right data career path. Many enter the field feeling lost, trying to learn everything at once but never quite finding their place. That’s why I created?Finding Your Data Analytics Pathway—to provide the structure and direction I wish I had when I started.
If you’re wondering where you belong in the data and AI space, this is for you.
Breaking Down Key Data Roles
The data field is not a one-size-fits-all career. There are several specializations, and finding the right fit depends on your strengths, interests, and career goals. Below are some of the most common roles in data analytics and AI.
Data Analyst: Making Data Understandable
A Data Analyst is the most recognized entry point into the field. Every organization needs one,?whether in healthcare, finance, or retail. Data analysts collect, clean, and interpret data to support business decisions.
Core Skills: ?? Excel, SQL, Python (basic) ?? Data visualization (Tableau, Power BI) ?? Descriptive statistics (mean, median, standard deviation)
If you enjoy working with numbers, identifying patterns, and supporting decision-making, this could be the right role for you.
Business Intelligence Analyst: Storytelling with Data
BI Analysts take data interpretation a step further by creating interactive dashboards and reports that make insights visually compelling. They work closely with leadership teams to present data-driven strategies.
Core Skills: ?? BI tools (Power BI, Tableau) ?? SQL & data wrangling ?? Dashboard design & reporting
If you love translating complex data into visual insights, BI might be your perfect fit.
Data Scientist: The Problem Solver
Data Scientists build models and algorithms to uncover deeper insights and predict trends. They don’t just analyze past data; they create systems that learn from data to drive decision-making.
Core Skills: ?? Machine Learning & AI ?? Python, R, SQL ?? Deep statistical & mathematical knowledge
If you enjoy problem-solving, coding, and working on predictive models, data science might be for you.
Data Engineer: The Architect of Data
Data Engineers are the backbone of the data ecosystem—they build the infrastructure that enables data collection, processing, and storage. Without them, analysts and scientists wouldn’t have clean, structured data to work with.
Core Skills: ?? SQL, Python, Big Data tools (Spark, Hadoop) ?? Data pipeline development ?? Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure)
If you enjoy working on the technical backbone of data systems, engineering might be the best fit for you.
Data Governance Analyst: The Gatekeeper of Data
As organizations collect more data, security, privacy, and compliance have become major concerns. Data Governance professionals ensure that data is properly managed, accessible, and protected.
Core Skills: ?? Data policies & compliance (NDPA, GDPR, HIPAA) ?? Documentation & data quality management ?? Stakeholder collaboration
If you have a keen eye for compliance and enjoy policy-making, this role is worth exploring.
The Ever-Evolving Landscape of Data & AI Careers
The data industry is constantly evolving, and so are the roles within it. While?Data Analysts, Data Scientists, and Data Engineers?remain foundational, new specializations are emerging at an unprecedented rate.
Roles like Data Business Partner, Machine Learning Engineer, and AI Ethicist didn’t exist just three to five years ago—now, they are among the most sought-after positions in tech.
Why? Because as businesses integrate AI-driven decision-making, the need for specialized skills is growing. Companies require professionals who not only understand data but can also bridge the gap between analytics, AI, and real-world business applications.
Look at the image below: It highlights 10 emerging roles that have evolved from the traditional Data Scientist role, showing how AI and automation are shaping the future of data careers.
The question is: How will you adapt to stay ahead?
This is why learning foundational skills in data analytics and AI is more critical than ever. By understanding core principles, you position yourself to evolve with the industry rather than be left behind.
Go back five years, and these roles barely existed. The question is—how do you prepare for what’s next?
Will AI Replace Data Jobs?
The rise of AI has sparked debates about job security. While AI will automate some tasks, it will also create new career opportunities for those who know how to leverage it. The key is staying adaptable and continuously learning.
Take Action Today: Don’t be replaced by AI—use AI to future-proof your career.
Find Your Path in Data & AI
Choosing the right data career path can be overwhelming. That’s why I designed Finding Your Data Analytics Pathway: A Guide to Landing Your First Job—to help you:
Cohort 5 starts May 4th, 2025.
?? Secure your spot here: bit.ly/DATACOHORT5
Let’s build the future of data and AI—together.
#DataAnalytics #AI #CareerGrowth #DataScience #BusinessIntelligence #TheDataMindset