Meet the Advisory Board of the UW Master of Science in Data Science

Arora develops and executes the Data Science, Optimization, and Artificial Intelligence enterprise strategy. He and his teams research advances in the fields of Data Science, AI, and Software Engineering and apply these to models, architectures, and production systems. He is a results-proven senior leader who capitalizes on hands-on machine learning, operations research and analytics experience to drive top and bottom-line growth by development of data science products. Nikhil has extensive experience in applying data to make better decisions and is well versed in all aspects of capturing and storing data (warehousing), governing its access and use and generating insights. Nikhil is a member of Schneider’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Grants committee where he endorses financial support for DEI initiatives in the community. Outside of work, Nikhil volunteers his time to support the underprivileged, is an avid nature photographer, a voracious reader, and loves spending time with his family.

Barnebee specializes in data quality, process improvement, and reporting. In her role supporting the Office of University Development, she enhances data-driven strategies to increase private support for the university. Jessica holds a bachelor’s degree in statistics from Michigan State University and earned a master’s degree in data science, having completed the program while working full time.

Ferrier leads enterprise AI strategy and execution at Oshkosh Corporation, driving adoption of advanced analytics across supply chain, operations, engineering, and aftermarket functions. With over 14 years of experience, he has built and scaled high-performing teams and delivered a broad portfolio of AI and machine learning initiatives. He specializes in translating complex technical capabilities into enterprise solutions, establishing governance frameworks, and enabling responsible AI adoption in highly regulated environments. Ferrier holds master’s degrees in data science and cybersecurity from the University of Wisconsin and Georgia Tech, as well as an MBA with a focus on data analytics and supply chain management.

Fuchs has been with TruStage (formerly CUNA Mutual Group) for over 34 years, working as a data architect on several data warehouse and master data management systems. He has been involved in a variety of projects supporting analytics and enjoys working with the business teams to help them understand and get value from data. He is currently a data architect on a Microsoft Azure cloud-based data warehouse project, working with business analysts as well as the data science teams on the data and architecture needed to support advanced analytics. He holds a BS and MS in Computer Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Gellings is a senior data science and analytics leader with over 20 years of experience driving enterprise data, analytics, AI, and automation strategies that deliver measurable business value. He leads business intelligence, data engineering, and data management teams, and sets enterprise AI and robotic process automation strategy. He leads teams with a focus on embedding data science, analytics, and AI into core business processes to improve decision making, operational effectiveness, and long term performance. Outside of his professional work, Gellings has served in leadership roles in children’s ministry and international missions, experiences that shape his people first leadership approach and emphasis on the ethical, responsible use of data and AI.

Lussky is a Data Scientist at Altra Federal Credit Union, where he leads the organization’s data science function and develops machine learning systems supporting decision-making in areas such as lifetime value, liquidity, workforce planning, and risk. He works closely with leadership to translate business needs into analytical solutions and advance data-driven strategy and AI adoption. He holds an MS in Data Science from the University of Wisconsin Extended Campus (2023) and a BA in Mathematics from Bethany Lutheran College.

Medeke works to enable data and analytics around some of our states most challenging questions. In addition to the UW Master’s in Data Science Advisory Board, she serves as the Treasurer for the Wisconsin Data Management Association and Co-Chair of the State of Wisconsin Business Intelligence Collaboration Center. Medeke brings to the board a view on how data can influence business, team management, business intelligence, data management, strategic planning, and executive sponsorship.

Pasierb has over 20 years’ experience in Data Science and Information Technology staffing. She is currently launching her second staffing startup company, Datapro. She has served as the VP of Membership for Wisconsin DAMA since 2010. Her experience includes startups, mergers, sales, recruiting, and management. She has a degree in Psychology from Loyola University Chicago, and her key contribution is making connections.

Dr. Srinivasan leads her team to build data-driven solutions for customers in the energy, manufacturing, power & utilities sectors. Prior to Cognite, Dr. Srinivasan was the head of data science and engineering at Spiceworks Ziff Davis, focusing on building data products for performance marketing and advertising. She has also worked in boutique engineering and data consulting firms in Austin. Dr. Srinivasan has a PhD in Chemical Engineering from MIT.

Stephens leads a team of skilled engineers in guiding businesses to accelerate digital transformation and drive innovation through Google Cloud solutions. With over 25 years of experience spanning software development, data warehousing, and data science, Elaine brings deep technical expertise to her role. Before joining Google, Elaine held senior technical roles at major technology firms, spearheading large-scale IT modernization projects. Elaine holds a Physics degree from MIT.

Swanstrom is a Data Engineer in Mayo Clinic’s Generative AI Department, where he curates and deidentifies extensive datasets for training large language and multi-modal models. His Work involves close collaboration with industry leaders like NVIDIA, Microsoft, Google, and Cerebras. A proud alumnus of the first UW Online Collaboratives MSDS cohort (2017 graduate), Dana successfully transitioned from a career in education to become a Data Analyst with Eau Claire County before joining Mayo Clinic as a Data Engineer.

Vey specializes in data quality for product domain data in SAP S/4 HANA and the development of analytics for data-driven product portfolio management. He has an extensive background in leveraging data from SAP to drive actionable business results, with a unique combination of business domain knowledge, process mapping skills, and data science technical skills. He previously was a Senior Engineer and Data Scientist at Rockwell Automation in supply chain and compliance, with a background as a Lead ISO 9001 internal auditor and is also Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certified. He holds a B.S. in Biological Systems Engineering from UW-Madison and is a December 2023 graduate of the Wisconsin Online Collaboratives MSDS program.

Wells is the Enterprise Architect for Data and Analytics at Trane Technologies where she has worked for 20 years. In this role, she is responsible for developing and driving the future state vision for Data and Analytics across the organization. This work extends across the many technology, process, and people components that directly touch and are affected by Data and Analytics. Rebecca is very passionate about helping people connect the dots between the why of business goals and the what & how delivered through data and analytics.