Current Position:

Director, Data and Analytics Practice at Duke University

Degree

• PhD Applied Mathematics, 2002

Questions below were answered by John, while he was in his previous position as a CEO, Taurus Math and Technology, Inc.

Was the degree you earned required for the work you do? How did you find yourself in your current position?

My PhD allowed me to advance through a series of roles in my career. I was initially an individual contributor as a software developer and applied mathematician, and later managed teams and eventually became an executive. My education provided me with the experience and skills to tackle extremely complex and technical problems. Also, the credential (PhD) frankly provides authority in a technical field as well.

What skills or abilities do you find are most important in the work you do?

• A strong foundation in engineering. In software, this is no different than anywhere else: ability to build robust software, that someone else can understand, and that is easily maintained.
• Understanding and translating complex and esoteric problems and requirements
• Identifying the best methodology and technology for solving problems
• Knowing when we reach the point of diminishing returns in a development effort, and it’s time to release a solution and begin iterating.

What preparation would you recommend for someone interested in entering your field? Are there any courses at State you would recommend?

• Linear algebra is absolutely fundamental in my field.
• Statistics and Probability are also both very important.
• In terms of preparation, hands on software development experience in a production environment is extremely valuable.

What other career paths would you suggest a student explore before making a final decision?

• Definitely explore something like the Peace Corps, Teach For America, or some other challenging service work for a few years after you finish your undergrad. The growth and friendships you form in that kind of experience are unparalleled.
• Startups are extremely exciting and energizing environments to work in. If you can find a way to work in a startup early on, it can be extremely valuable experience, since you will gain hands on experience in many different areas.

If you had to do everything over again, would you do anything differently? Why or why not?

It’s easy to look back and say, if I had chosen a different path, things would be so much better. I considered a research and academic path, and that would have also been rewarding, but my experience and trajectory have been excellent preparation for my job now running a technology company.