Expert Talk on Navigating Technology Stack and Placement Journey
The expert talk addressed three critical areas essential for data science career preparation
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Industry Expectations & Technology Stack: The session covered industry standards for data science professionals, technology stack selection (Python, R, machine learning frameworks, cloud platforms, and big data tools), and the importance of aligning skills with current market demands where job postings requiring data science degrees have surged from 47% to 70%
- Continuous Upskilling: Mr. Sakthi Raj emphasized the necessity of continuous learning in areas such as Generative AI, NLP, and computer vision, supplemented by hands-on portfolio projects and industry certifications
- Career Pathway: Students learned actionable strategies for placement preparation, including building strong technical fundamentals, developing practical projects, staying current with industry trends, obtaining relevant certifications, and cultivating both technical and soft skills.
Resource Person & Organization
Mr. Sakthi Raj, Technical Specialist at HTC Global Services, brings extensive expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotic process automation, and cybersecurity. HTC Global Services Inc., founded in 1990 and headquartered in Troy, Michigan, is a premier IT and business process outsourcing organization with over 10,000 employees globally, serving Fortune 1000 clients across AI/ML, RPA, IoT, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.
Event Outcomes & Industry Context
Outcomes: The expert talk provided industry-aligned career guidance, enhanced student understanding of technology stacks, facilitated industry connections, strengthened placement confidence, and delivered actionable upskilling recommendations through interactive discussions.
Industry Landscape: Job postings requiring data science degrees increased by 23% from 2024 to 2025; entry-level positions now average $152,000 annually (up $40,000 from 2024); machine learning skills appear in 77% of job postings[1]. Employers increasingly seek versatile professionals with communication acumen and ethical AI understanding alongside technical expertise.
