45+ AI and ML Women Thought Leaders from Florida
Florida, the Sunshine State ☀️🦩, where Data Science Salon is headquartered, is home to a strong and influential community of women leaders in AI and ML across business and academia. As the seventh annual DSS MIA approaches on September 18, these women are making a significant impact, driving innovation and challenging traditional tech centers like Silicon Valley.
Below is a list of these leaders, organized in alphabetical order.
Sara Aby SVP — Global Data & Technology at Starcom
Sara Aby is a media and data science professional currently serving as the SVP of Global Data & Technology at Starcom, a media agency headquartered in Chicago. She joined Starcom in September 2022. Sara completed her PhD in Electrical Engineering from Florida International University in 2015. Prior to her current role, she was the SVP of Analytics & Data Science at UM Worldwide from October 2021 to September 2022. She also worked at OMD USA as the Senior Director of Data Science and as Director of Data Science, Marketing Science from 2019 to 2021. Sara’s earlier career includes roles as Senior Data Scientist at Crossix Solutions and Lead Data Scientist at Perr&Knight.
Erica Pereira-Amorim, Chief Data Officer
Erica Pereira-Amorim, PhD, is the Chief Data Officer at Broward College, with expertise in research and data analysis across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, she specializes in designing and evaluating evidence-based programs that impact vulnerable populations. At Broward College, she leads advanced analytics, business intelligence, and data governance to support data-driven decision-making. She holds a Ph.D. in Education Policy and Evaluation from Florida State University.
Anna Anisin — Founder & CMO at Formulated𝐁𝐲 + DataScience.Salon
Anna Anisin, recognized as a Tech Industry Insider by CNN for three consecutive years, is a prominent entrepreneur and tech leader. She is the founder and CMO of FormulatedBy and DataScience.Salon, driving innovation in AI and machine learning. Formerly CEO of 4Sync and VP of US Operations at 4Shared, Anna co-founded Passare in 2013 and was part of the founding team at Domino Data Lab. At FormulatedBy, she collaborates with over 100 companies, including AWS, IBM, and O’Reilly Media, to develop effective marketing strategies. Through DataScience.Salon, she fosters diversity and innovation in data science, AI, and ML. As a Forbes contributor, she shares insights on AI, machine learning, and marketing while advocating for women in tech. Anna’s work highlights her commitment to promoting inclusive and ethical practices in technology.
Catalina Arango — VP Data at Blackstone
Catalina Arango is a Vice President at Blackstone, focusing on Real Estate and Private Equity Technology with an emphasis on data, analytics, and AI. Previously, she served as a Data Platform Product Manager at NextEra Energy, developing enterprise applications for analytics and machine learning. She also held roles at several startups and led analytics initiatives at Restaurant Brands International. Catalina holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from The Wharton School and has studied at Singapore Management University.
Jenifer Jones-Barbato, Vice President, Global Data and Analytics and Regional CIO — North America at Bacardi
Jenifer Jones-Barbato is the Vice President of Global Data and Analytics and Regional CIO for North America at Bacardi. With extensive experience in data science and analytics, she has held senior roles at Jellyfish, TE Connectivity, and The Estée Lauder Companies. Jenifer specializes in data strategy and leading analytics teams to drive business value. She holds an M.E. in Operations Research and Statistics from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and has completed advanced business courses. She also served as Treasurer on the Board of Directors for Jackson Youth Football and Cheerleading.
Dr. Elizabeth Barth-Thacker — VP — Head of Data & Analytics at American Modern Insurance Group
Dr. Elizabeth Barth-Thacker is a seasoned digital change leader and strategist, renowned for her expertise in driving profitable growth through digital and analytic strategy execution, governance, and operational excellence. Currently serving as VP and Head of Data & Analytics at American Modern Insurance Group, she leads the organization’s analytic maturity journey, shaping its data and analytic strategy to enhance financial performance. Elizabeth is also a member of Chief, a private network empowering women executives. With a rich background spanning roles at Nicklaus Children’s Health System, Cigna Healthcare, and Humana Inc., Elizabeth brings extensive experience in technology governance, strategic planning, executive management, and human capital development. She holds a Ph.D. in an analytical field, complementing her practical insights with academic rigor.
Rossella Blatt Vital, VP of Engineering — AI and AnalyticsVP of Engineering — AI and Analytics, Sprout Social
Rossella Blatt Vital is a visionary AI and Data Science executive with over 15 years of experience in transforming data into valuable insights. She has a strong track record of building high-impact products and leading teams to deliver innovative AI solutions across various industries, including Tech, Retail, and FinTech. Currently, as the VP of Engineering — AI and Analytics at Sprout Social, Inc., Rossella is spearheading multi-year AI initiatives that are reshaping the social media landscape. She is passionate about fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and inclusion and is deeply committed to using AI to create a better tomorrow. Additionally, Rossella serves as an advisor to startups, leveraging her expertise to guide the development of cutting-edge AI products in the e-commerce and food security sectors. She is a Stanford University Graduate School of Business alumna and is driven by a belief in the power of AI to solve complex problems and drive meaningful change.
Patricia Buendia, Biomedical Innovation Catalyst
Patricia Buendia is a Biomedical Innovation Catalyst focused on improving healthcare through data integration and computational tools. She is the Founder and CEO of Lifetime Omics, Inc., and has served as a Senior Scientific Consultant at BioTeam, Inc. With a PhD in Bioinformatics from Florida International University and a Master’s in Computer Science from the Technical University of Munich, Patricia’s work combines algorithmic, statistical, and machine learning approaches to extract insights from clinical and biomedical data. She collaborates with experts in biomedical research to discover new biomarkers and treatments.
Teodora Cifu, sr Strategy & Financialanalytics at Zumba
Tia (Teodora) Cifu is an experienced Analytics and Strategy professional with a strong background in business intelligence and analytics. She currently works as a Senior Strategy & Financial Analytics Manager at Zumba, where she focuses on developing key business KPIs, providing strategic insights, and supporting budgeting and forecasting across departments. Tia has held previous roles at Royal Caribbean Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and the Florida Panthers, where she specialized in sales analytics, consumer data analysis, and business performance monitoring. She holds an MBA in Business Intelligence & Analytics and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Nova Southeastern University. Tia is skilled in tools such as Excel, Tableau, and Power BI, and has a passion for strategic planning and communication.
Michelle A. Coca — Data & Analytics Senior Consultant at SEI Miami
Michelle A. Coca is a Data & Analytics Senior Consultant at SEI in Miami, Florida, with over six years of experience in financial services and marketing. She excels in analyzing data to develop solutions based on defined KPIs and deploying them across organizations. Previously at Amerant Bank, Michelle extracted and analyzed data, built predictive models, and designed Big Data analytical solutions. She holds an M.S. in Applied Economics and a B.A. in Political Science and Economics from Florida State University. She’s also a volunteer at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami.
Yasmary Diaz, Staff Software Engineer, Etsy
Yasmary Diaz is a Staff Software Engineer at Etsy with over 16 years of experience in architecting, implementing, and maintaining data-centered solutions. She is passionate about machine learning, automation, and advocating for underrepresented groups in STEAM. Yasmary is known for her empathetic leadership style, fostering lasting relationships, and her commitment to diversity and inclusion. She has held various roles at Etsy, including Senior Engineering Manager, and previously worked at UKG and IBM. Yasmary holds a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Florida International University, where she was actively involved in Women in Computer Science and other academic activities.
Denise Disla, Director of Data Analytics, Linqto
Denisse Disla is a Data Analyst in FinTech, currently the Director of Data Analytics at Linqto. With a background in psychological research and business development, she completed a Data Analytics bootcamp at Ironhack and holds a certificate in Machine Learning Engineering from FourthBrain. She specializes in Python, MySQL, Tableau, PowerBI, and machine learning and is passionate about using data science to solve complex problems.
Nicole Darden Ford, SVP & CISO, Nordstrom
Nicole Darden Ford is the SVP & Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Nordstrom, where she drives digital transformation and strategic growth through cybersecurity leadership. With over 20 years of IT strategic experience, she has led cybersecurity programs across industries, including roles at Rockwell Automation and Carrier Global Corporation. Nicole is recognized for building scalable, future-ready security platforms and has been honored with multiple awards, including the Top 100 CISO Award and CSO50 recognition. She is also an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and actively mentors the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
Christine Francisco — VP Data Science at JP Morgan Chase
Christine Francisco is a seasoned data analyst with over a decade of experience delivering data-driven insights to senior leaders for making critical business decisions. She excels in collaborating across technical and business teams to execute analytical projects efficiently, even under tight deadlines. Her expertise extends to strategizing cost-saving solutions for process automation and refinement. At JPMorgan Chase & Co., Christine has held roles including Assistant Vice President in Data Analytics and Metrics and Vice President. Prior to that, she served at GEICO as a Statistical/Business Analyst, where she created automated reports for senior executives and implemented performance measurement tools. Christine holds a Master of Science in Management Information Systems from Baruch College, City University of New York (CUNY), and a certificate in Python for Data Science from Cornell University. She is also certified in Alteryx Designer Core and as a Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO). In addition to her professional achievements, Christine is actively engaged in volunteering, currently serving as the Membership and Engagement Lead for PRIDE Florida at JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Laura Gabrysiak — Sr Manager Global Data Science at Visa
Laura Gabrysiak is a seasoned Senior Data Scientist with over 13 years of experience, specializing in advanced analytics, machine learning, data visualization, and team management. Currently serving as Sr. Manager of Global Data Science at Visa, she leads analytics and data visualization initiatives, driving quality improvements and user engagement. With a Master’s Degree in Information Systems from Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and a Master’s degree in Design Thinking/UX from Hasso Plattner Institute, Laura is deeply involved in the data science community, co-founding R-Ladies Miami and advising at the University of Miami Frost Institute for Data Science & Computing.
Marina Ganopolsky, Back-end Engineer and Data Engineer
Marina Ganopolsky is a former Senior Payments Engineer at Crossmint, a leading web3 payments platform, where she specializes in implementing core payment logic, integrating multiple blockchain technologies, and developing data pipelines and dashboards. With over 15 years of experience in technology, finance, and entrepreneurship, Marina has a strong background in building innovative, scalable solutions that leverage data analytics and cutting-edge technologies. Her career highlights include enhancing operational efficiency and expanding the capabilities of Crossmint’s platform, contributing to significant growth in the company’s transaction volume. Marina is also an active participant in the web3 community, winning multiple hackathons, and speaking at industry events. She is passionate about using her skills to drive positive impact in the web3 space and promoting diversity and inclusion in technology.
Mariana Garcia Data Scientist & ML Engineer
Mariana Garcia is a Data Scientist and ML Engineer at Slalom, specializing in advanced analytics and machine learning projects that enhance client operations and customer experience. With expertise in cloud technologies, particularly AWS, she excels in creating machine learning workflows and translating complex business questions into actionable insights. Mariana has a background in applied economics and is passionate about healthcare analytics and sustainability. She has held roles as Principal and Senior Consultant at Slalom, Data Science & Analytics Manager at BankUnited, Data Scientist & Analytics Consultant at Deloitte, and Sr. Analytics Consultant at ByteCubed. Mariana holds a Master of Science in Applied Economics from Johns Hopkins University and a Machine Learning Engineer Nanodegree from Udacity.
Olga Gareeva, Partner & Managing Director, Tech Modernization Practice Leader, AlixPartners
Olga is a Partner & Managing Director at AlixPartners, where she co-leads the Americas Tech Modernization practice. With over 20 years of experience in consulting and operational roles, she advises C-suite clients on digital transformation and helps retail and consumer companies innovate and achieve efficiency. Olga has led strategic initiatives for Fortune 500 companies and served as a CIO for global CPG firms. She’s also an active member of Chief, connecting with and mentoring other accomplished women leaders.
Jennetta George, SVP of Digital AI & Data, AlixPartners
Megan Irons, Director of Data Science
Megan Irons is the Director of Data Science at Idea Financial, a position she has held since June 2021. Previously, she worked at FlexShopper for over six years, progressing from Data Science Intern to Data Scientist. Megan holds two Master’s degrees, one in Economics and another in Applied Mathematics and Statistics, both from Florida Atlantic University.
Olga Kovalevskaya, Director, Data Science at Universal Music Group
Olga Kovalevskaya is the Director of Data Science at Universal Music Group, where she has worked for over 8 years, progressing from Senior Data Scientist to her current role. She specializes in applying machine learning and statistical methods to innovate in the music industry, managing projects from data ETL to implementation. Previously, Olga was a Data Analyst at The Walt Disney Studios, where she developed ranking algorithms and optimized SQL queries. She also worked as a Tax Associate at H&R Block and an Auditor at EY. She holds a Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics-Economics from Belarus State Economic University and completed a course in Mining Massive Datasets at Stanford University. She is certified by Triplebyte and Google as a Data Scientist and Professional Data Engineer.
Yazhene Krishnaraj, Head of Decision Intelligence, McKesson
Yazhene Krishnaraj is a transformational leader specializing in technology and AI/ML, currently serving as the Head of Decision Intelligence at McKesson. She is skilled in creating strategic roadmaps to drive innovation and business value through advanced technology, with experience leading large initiatives and cross-functional teams. Yazhene is also a founding member of Women Leaders in Data & AI (WLDA), an exclusive network focused on supporting women leaders in the data and AI space. Her previous roles include leadership positions at Citizens and General Motors. Yazhene holds executive education credentials from Harvard Business School and is committed to fostering high-performing teams and advancing diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.
Alexandra Levinson — Principal Algorithms/ AI Engineer at Elbit Systems of America
Alexandra Levinson is a Principal Algorithms/AI Engineer at Elbit Systems of America, where she focuses on software deployment and technical leadership. With a background in mechanical engineering from the University of Florida, she has held various roles in signal processing engineering, analytics, and research, including positions at Raytheon Technologies and Envonics. Alexandra’s expertise spans algorithms, data science, and digital signal processing.
Nancy Li, Founder, Product Manager Accelerator
Dr. Nancy Li is a highly accomplished entrepreneur, product management expert, and educator with over eight years of experience in developing and launching innovative technology products. She is the CEO and founder of PM Accelerator, a leading professional development company for product managers, and has been featured in Forbes. Dr. Li has held prominent positions, including Director of Product at Cox Communications, where she led the go-to-market and product strategy for edge platforms. She holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Boston University and has studied at MIT Sloan School of Management. Passionate about education and mentoring, Dr. Li founded PMA Kids, a nonprofit dedicated to providing free product management training to high school students. She is also an active mentor for startups and women in tech, with a strong focus on bridging gaps in education and career development.
Viviana Márquez, Data ScientistFounder & Lead Educator, Miss Factorial Academy
Viviana Márquez is a Data Scientist and founder of Miss Factorial Academy, where she creates engaging data science and AI courses. She has worked as a Software Engineer at Dataminr and a Data Scientist at HBO Latin America, focusing on machine learning and data analysis. Viviana holds a Master’s in Data Science from the University of San Francisco and a Bachelor’s in Mathematics from Fundación Universitaria Konrad Lorenz.
Akanksha Mishra, Senior Data Scientist, Clarivate
Akanksha Mishra is a Senior Data Scientist at Clarivate with expertise in Natural Language Processing, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning. With a strong background in software programming and data analysis, she is passionate about building data-driven solutions to enhance products and processes. Akanksha holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from Northeastern University and has worked on various advanced analytics projects. She has also contributed to several impactful projects, including crime analysis and the development of custom search engines, and is actively involved in volunteer work to support education for underprivileged children.
Diana Porro Munoz, Senior Specialist in Data Science at Farelogix
Diana Porro Munoz is a Senior Specialist in Data Science at Farelogix, an Accelya Group Company. She holds a PhD in Computer Science from Delft University of Technology and has over 10 years of experience in machine learning research and development. Diana specializes in using machine learning for business decision-making and has expertise in Python and C#. Her previous roles include Director of Data Analytics at Miami HEAT, Principal Data Scientist at Accelya Group, and Lead Data Scientist at Farelogix. She is experienced in all areas of the Software Development Life Cycle and is known for her practical application of theoretical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and effective communication.
Candace Ohm Director of Product Analytics Cardlytics
Candace Ohm, PhD, is the Founder of Founder Institute at Florida State University. She’s a mathematician with expertise in innovative accounting, KPI establishment, and product growth strategy. Her specialties include research, growth hacking, A/B testing, and machine learning. With technical skills in SQL, Python, Tableau, and more, she’s led impactful roles at Cardlytics and Dosh, managing teams and driving revenue growth. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics from Florida State University.
Selen Onel — Associate Director Data Science at Chewy
Selen Onel is an Associate Director at Chewy, Inc., leading a team of data scientists and data engineers to produce high-impact forecasts and projects. Previously, she was a Lead Data Scientist at Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd, focusing on revenue management, and at International Flavors & Fragrances Inc., working on supply chain and procurement projects. At Kalibrate Technologies, Selen led software product redevelopment and provided services like network planning and price sensitivity analysis. She also contributed to a data analysis project for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Selen holds a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering, an MS in Computer Systems Engineering, and an MS in Operations Research from Northeastern University, and a BS in Mathematics from Middle East Technical University. With 15+ years of experience, she specializes in AI, ML, forecasting, and customer segmentation. She is skilled at leading high-performing teams and excels in fast-paced environments.
Inessa Pawson, Open Source Program Manager at OpenTeams
Inessa Pawson is a dedicated open-source advocate, educator, and senior program manager with extensive experience in managing culturally diverse and distributed teams. Currently serving as the Open Source Program Manager at OpenTeams, she plays a pivotal role in supporting and growing the open-source community. Inessa is also actively involved in the Python community, contributing as a NumPy Steering Council member and organizing key events like the PyCon US Maintainers Summit. Her passion for fostering inclusivity and accessibility in technology is reflected in her efforts to promote diversity, education, and community engagement across various platforms.
Flaviane Peccin, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Director at Visa
Flaviane Peccin is a seasoned Data Scientist with over 10 years of experience in predictive modeling and machine learning, currently serving as the Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Director at Visa. She has a strong background in developing and implementing data-driven strategies and solutions across various industries, particularly in the financial sector. Flaviane holds a Master’s degree in Numerical Methods in Engineering and a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics from Universidade Federal do Paraná. Her expertise spans from leading data science teams to collaborating on global and regional projects, driving business innovation and efficiency through advanced analytics.
Maisa Penha, AI Platform | Azure OpenAI | Principal TPM
Maisa Penha is a Principal Technical Program Manager at Microsoft, specializing in AI platforms and Azure OpenAI. With over 20 years of experience in software engineering and product management, she has a strong background in AI and machine learning, particularly in Large Language Models. Maisa has led multiple AI implementations and strategic partnerships, including her role at IBM’s Watson Center of Excellence for Latin America. She is an advocate for diversity and inclusion, co-founding the Techie Women Community for Latin American women in tech. Maisa holds certifications from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business and has a proven track record of driving innovation and fostering high-performing teams.
Natalie Porter, Data Analytics & Strategy
Natalie Porter is a Data & Solutions Strategist at Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, where she utilizes her expertise in data infrastructure, insights, and mathematical models to drive business growth and innovation in the beverage alcohol industry. In her role, Natalie has contributed to strategic initiatives like developing data governance frameworks, conducting market research, and building data visualization tools. She collaborates with cross-functional teams to provide data-driven solutions that optimize processes and enhance customer experiences. With a background in biology and economics from Florida International University, Natalie is also actively involved in diversity and education initiatives.
Lalitha Pragada — Former — Head of Data Science at AffiniPay
Lalitha Pragada is a Data Science and Analytics Leader with extensive experience across various industries. She most recently worked as a Data Architect at Med Metrix from April 2023 to December 2023. Before that, she served as the Director of Data Analytics at AffiniPay for four years, where she led data analytics and business intelligence initiatives in Austin, Texas. From June 2016 to December 2018, Lalitha was a Data Team Lead at Kforce Inc., managing BI and team leadership projects. She also held the role of Lead Data Analyst at Texas Health and Human Services from March 2013 to June 2016, focusing on data analytics and business intelligence. Earlier in her career, she worked as a Business Data Analyst at Ibeza, LLC, in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area. Lalitha holds a Master of Science from Mississippi State University and a Nanodegree in Machine Learning from Udacity. She is certified as a Data Science Associate by Dell EMC and has been an active Kaggler on Kaggle since January 2015.
Hemalatha (Hema) Raju, Ph.D., Senior Data Scientist, AbbVie
Hemalatha (Hema) Raju, Ph.D., is a clinical data scientist with over 7 years of experience in the CRO industry, including 4 years in big data analysis and machine learning. She is proficient in R, Perl, Python, and SAS. Currently a Senior Data Scientist at AbbVie, Hema focuses on clinical trials and biological data analysis. Previously, she was a Lead Data Scientist at Syneos Health, developing tools for feasibility analysis, and at Biorasi, where she implemented on-site data analytics and risk-based monitoring. Hema holds a Ph.D. in Human Genetics and Genomics from the University of Miami and a Master’s in Biophysics from the University of Madras. She volunteers as a student mentor and an education volunteer.
Veronica Ramos, Sr. Principal Scientist at Medtronic
Veronica Ramos is a Sr. Principal Scientist at Medtronic with over eight years of experience. She previously worked as a Clinical Engineer at HeartWare Inc. and in procurement and control engineering roles. Veronica holds an MS in Data Analytics from Georgia Tech and a BE in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Florida International University. She also has certifications in Data Analytics and Project Management.
Sol Rashidi — Best Selling Author on AI
Sol Rashidi, a distinguished global speaker and advisor, is acclaimed as an “AI Visionary of the 21st Century” and among the “Top 100 AI Thought Leaders.” With a history of leadership roles at Fortune 100 companies like Estee Lauder, Merck Pharmaceuticals, Sony Music, and Royal Caribbean, Sol has earned recognition for her innovative approach, including eight granted patents. Featured in prestigious media outlets such as Forbes and CNBC, Sol combines technical expertise with storytelling to simplify complex ideas and drive strategic visions. She prioritizes practical solutions, advocates for AI when appropriate, and emphasizes impactful outcomes. Currently, as a data, AI, and business consultant, Sol advises startups, private equity firms, and Fortune 500 companies, helping them establish clear strategies and navigate AI integration. She also serves as an advisor to Armada, a leading edge computing platform. Sol’s educational background includes a BS in Chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley, and an Executive Program in Disruptive Strategies from Harvard University. Known for her dynamic energy and passion, Sol excels in driving innovation while aligning with business objectives.
Nadine Davey-Rogers, Data Product Development
Nadine Davey-Rogers is an accomplished data product executive with extensive experience in building digital analytical products and AI systems. Currently serving as the Executive Vice President of Marketing, Franchise, and Finance Technology at Mastercard, she has a proven track record of leadership in global markets, including Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Nadine is fluent in Spanish and Portuguese and is skilled in strategic vision development, product management, and cloud strategy. Her career highlights include leading high-performing teams, driving business growth, and contributing to innovative product development. Nadine is also actively involved in mentoring and board leadership.
Jaime Russ — Former Principal Data Scientist at Ryder System — Inc
Jaime Russ has over 20 years of experience in data science, specializing in data cleaning, processing, experimental design, and machine learning. She excels in team leadership and project management, with technical expertise in SQL, R, Python, Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-Learn, Seaborn, Matplotlib, and PostgreSQL. Her personal interests include art, music, puzzles, anime, and logic games. Currently, Jaime is the Managing Director at Lynnsight Solutions, focusing on analytics and project management for SMBs. She also volunteers as a Custom Project Team Lead at ATLytiCS Inc., guiding data projects that support vulnerable communities. Previously, she was a Lead Instructor at BrainStation and a Principal Data Scientist at Ryder System, Inc., developing highly accurate forecasting models. Jaime holds a Data Science Immersion Bootcamp certificate from Thinkful and a BA in Business Administration from Florida Atlantic University. She is certified in Power BI by Coursera.
Rebecca Sharpe — Chief Technology Officer & Chief Marketing Officer @ Miami Waterkeeper
Rebecca Sharpe is the Chief Technology Officer and Chief Marketing Officer at Miami Waterkeeper. With a background in data, analytics, technology, and marketing leadership, she has led client programs at major agency groups like WPP, IPG, and Publicis Groupe. Notable achievements include establishing DevOps and data science teams at Amazon, managing the agency research program for Verizon, leading the strategy for user experience analytics at Publicis Groupe’s AI app Marcel, and spearheading a digital transformation program at DBS Bank. Rebecca holds an MBA and a Master of Research, focusing on mixed-methods and consumer behavior.
Noelle Russell, Chief AI Officer, AI Leadership Institute
Noelle Russell is a recognized AI leader, speaker, and Microsoft Responsible AI MVP with extensive experience across top tech companies including AWS, Amazon Alexa, Microsoft, NPR, and Accenture. As the Chief AI Officer at Fifty One Ai and founder of the AI Leadership Institute, she is committed to scaling responsible AI practices and empowering organizations with AI and emerging technologies. Noelle has received numerous awards for her contributions to AI ethics and mentorship, and is passionate about using AI to drive social impact and ethical innovation. She also serves as an AI Executive Coach, helping businesses and leaders navigate the complexities of AI adoption.
Ana Simoes, Principal Specialist, GenAI Frameworks Principal Specialist, GenAI Frameworks at Amazon Web Services
Ana Simoes is the AI/ML GenAI Principal Specialist at AWS, where she manages strategic AI and machine learning deployments and partnerships, including a key collaboration with Hugging Face. With a technical background in AI and Natural Language Processing, Ana has a strong track record in building and managing AI business lines, including at Intel Labs, where she helped establish the GenAI division. She holds an MBA from the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley and has a diverse background in computational linguistics, cognitive science, and media production. Ana is fluent in multiple languages and is passionate about using technology to address global challenges.
Tatsiana Sokalava — CEO | Co-Founder at Career Scoops
Tatsiana Sokalava, MBA, SDS is a CEO, founder, and visionary in the field of AI and education innovation. With a focus on AI development and innovation, she co-founded Career Scoops™, leading the company to new heights since January 2023. Tatsiana is also the Chief Data Consultant and Founder of Datalligence Solutions, where she applies her expertise in AI and project management. Her journey includes roles as a Data Scientist at Glue and Shelf Engine, contributing to advancements in AI, data science, and statistics. Previously, she served as the Chief Operating Officer at Orange County Property Appraiser, Florida, where she honed her skills in data analysis and statistics. Tatsiana’s educational background includes a Professional Certificate in Data Science from Harvard University and Sloan Executive Education in Artificial Intelligence and Operations Strategy from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Ashley Taylor — Machine Learning Manager at Southeast Toyota Finance
Ashley Taylor has over 13 years of experience with JM Family Enterprises, Inc., currently serving as the Machine Learning Manager. In this role, she focuses on innovative reporting and data analysis to support operations. She has a solid record of improving efficiency and accuracy through automated reporting solutions. Prior to this, Ashley worked as a Research Analyst at the University of Miami, where she designed and analyzed data reports for various departments. She holds a Master of Science degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering and a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Miami.
Tina Tran, Sr. Director of Data Science
Tina Tran is the Sr. Director of Data Science at Insite AI, with over 13 years of experience in data analysis, statistical modeling, and machine learning. She is proficient in programming languages like Java, Python, and C++, and has expertise in advanced analysis tools such as Matlab and R. Tina has held leadership roles at Bacardi and Anheuser-Busch InBev, where she led data science teams and developed innovative analytical solutions. She holds a PhD in Computer and Information Science from the University of Mississippi. Tina is known for her strong leadership, technical skills, and ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
Amanda Waite is the Director of Science Education & Advancement at ANGARI Foundation
Amanda Waite is the Director of Science Education & Advancement at ANGARI Foundation, where she develops and manages educational programs focused on marine and earth sciences. With expertise in marine geology, biogeochemistry, and paleoceanography, Amanda has experience across academia, industry, and the non-profit sector. She has held positions as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Florida and Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, and as a Visiting Professor at Lafayette College. Amanda holds a PhD in Marine Geology and Geophysics from the University of Miami and an MS in Oceanography from the University of Delaware.
Ruiqi Wang, Machine Learning | Data Science | Duke MIDS Class 2020
Ruiqi Wang is a Machine Learning Engineer with experience at Restaurant Brands International, where she has held roles including Tech Lead and Machine Learning Engineer II. She has a strong background in data science and machine learning, complemented by her previous experience as a Data Engineer Intern at Align Technology and an Analyst Intern at BDA. Ruiqi holds a Master’s degree in Data Science from Duke University and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of International Business and Economics.
Kimoy Williams, Senior Director of E-commerce at Spirit Airlines
Kimoy Williams is a Senior Director of E-commerce at Spirit Airlines, where she specializes in predictive analytics, traditional statistics, and machine learning. She has extensive experience in developing and automating enterprise-wide reports. Kimoy holds a Master of Science in Mathematics from Florida Atlantic University and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a minor in Finance from Florida Memorial University. Prior to her current role, she served as Director of Systems & Development at Spirit Airlines.
Xuan Zhang, Lead Product Manager, Allstate
Xuan Zhang is a highly analytical and result-driven Lead Product Manager at Allstate, with over five years of experience in data science. Skilled in cross-functional collaboration, process improvement, and project deployment, Xuan has a strong background in Agile methodology, statistics, big data, and analytics. Proficient in tools such as SQL, R, Python, Tableau, Jira, and Confluence, Xuan has a proven track record of delivering successful business solutions and exceeding expectations. Previously, Xuan held roles at American Express, Norwegian Cruise Line, and earned a Master of Science in Business Analytics from the University of Miami.
Summary
Florida, and especially Miami, offers an unbeatable mix of great weather, access to top talent, and a vibrant ecosystem of data science experts. We espcially love Miami and SoFlo for its growing community of AI leaders, proving that not all talent is concentrated in traditional tech hubs like Silicon Valley and NYC. The strong, knowledgeable women leading the way here make Florida an even more attractive place to find an AI partner or connect with a cutting-edge community.
