Congratulations to the new co-chairs of the Graduate Data Network (GDN) – Samuel McMurray, Victoria Vuori and Cynthia Feng! We asked the three co-chairs to share a little about themselves and their data journeys so far.
Samuel McMurray
Samuel is a data science grad at the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) working with machine learning for fraud detection. He’s very passionate about all the problems that can be solved when data is used to its fullest potential and is clearly communicated and explained to stakeholders. Samuel enjoys de-stressing by spending time in nature, either running or hiking on the amazing trails around Sydney.
What did you study and how have you built your analytical skills since?
I studied a Bachelor of Science at the University of Sydney. I majored in both Data Science and Business Analytics which gave me a firm foundation in the stats, maths, and comp sci tools and principles that are used across the data analytics cycle.
I’ve built my data skills by taking on projects that have required me to learn something new or deepen my understanding of an existing topic. For example, as part of my work in the ATO University Partnership Employment Program (UPEP) I was able to research, understand and evaluate new concepts and eventually add them to my data tool-box.
Why did you want to be a co-chair and what do you want to achieve?
I was inspired to take on the co-chair position because of what past GDN cohorts have been able to achieve and the ability that the GDN has to empower grads across the APS to ensure a data-driven future for Australia. Although it may sound grandiose (and it probably is), it all starts with a network of individuals who are passionate about sharing their experiences and applying data to their day-to-day work, and I would be honoured to play a small part in this vision.
I believe that strong networks, data literacy, and analytical skills will afford GDN members great opportunities for personal and professional growth well into the future. Therefore, I would love to provide GDN members at all levels of data exposure with access to the connections, tools, and training that they need to improve the use of data as they undertake their GDN and departmental projects.
Victoria Vuori
Victoria is a graduate at the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), currently working as a law interpretation officer. She’s interested in building connections between her fellow graduates and creating awareness about data and data policy. Particular data interests include data visualisation and the use of data to influence statute and governance. Outside of work, if she’s not travelling or reading a good book, you’ll find Victoria spending quality time unwinding with friends and family.
What did you study and how have you built your analytical skills since?
I studied Law and Business at Murdoch University. I learnt the basics of data analysis at university and since then I have taken advantage of free online courses and literature as well as APS designed courses. I have also built my analytical skills through real world projects and not being afraid to ask for assistance.
Why did you want to be a co-chair and what do you want to achieve?
I wanted to be co-chair as I believe the value the Graduate Data Network has on young professionals is significant. Being able to help shape the direction of the network is a great privilege. Personally, I also hope that participation as co-chair would connect me with likeminded graduates that I can learn from and share with. Throughout the year I hope to create opportunities to further improve network members capabilities in data interpretation and visualisation. I also hope to help working group members network with those in the data field.
Cynthia Feng
Cynthia is a data analyst in the National COVID Vaccine Taskforce at the Department of Health. She’s interested in incorporating diverse perspectives into the data space – many data professionals come from a variety of backgrounds already (data analytics majors didn’t always exist). Whether someone studied forestry or art history, she wants them to bring their analytical lens to the data world and consider themselves a data person. When not at work, she enjoys trying out new tricks on her roller skates, or new recipes in the kitchen.
What did you study and how have you built your analytical skills since?
I studied psychology and history at the University of Sydney. I’ve found that asking questions and giving everything a go has been helpful in building my analytical skills. Discussing more complex questions with the specialists in my team and understanding how and why they took a particular approach has helped me see things differently.
Why did you want to be a co-chair and what do you want to achieve?
I wanted to be a co-chair this year because I think the GDN plays an empowering role for graduates. Starting as a graduate in a big agency can be daunting; the GDN gives graduates the chance to think about bigger-picture questions and drive their own project. I also wanted to play a part in helping the APS progress its use of data. This year, I want our graduates to finish their year more data-confident than when they started, and to participate in the broader APS data community.
If you are a graduate interested in participating on one of the Graduate Data Network’s 2022 projects, or if you are just curious about what the Graduate Data Network does, please get in touch with Samuel, Victoria and Cynthia at samuel.mcmurray@ato.gov.au, Victoria.Vuori@ato.gov.au or cynthia.feng@health.gov.au