As technology continues to advance and expand in recent times, we have in the same vein witnessed an unprecedented growth in businesses dependent on technology to provide solutions.

As belly to food, so is data to technology. The world runs on data- businesses, government even individuals rely on data to plan and make critical decisions. Data however needs to be processed by technology into usable information. This is where the expertise of data scientists is required to manage, process, interpret and store this data as information for business, government and personal uses.

Data scientists without any shadow of doubt has proven themselves competent in providing immense value to business, governments and individuals who rely on data. Nonetheless, the job of a data scientist skills differ from business to business, government to to governments and individuals alike each company. Having said that, there are relevant skills a good data scientist should stand to out in competition.

In this article we will be taking a microscopic look at five of these essential skills (not machine learning or programming language) for data scientists in 2024. I would not discuss Programming Language or Machine Learning

1. Cloud Computing
Cloud omputing an internet-based service commonly known as the “Cloud,” encompasses a range of resources such as servers, analytical software, networking, and security solutions. It is designed to dynamically adjust to the user’s requirements and provide resources as needed.

In the current era of data science, numerous companies are embracing cloud computing to scale their operations and reduce infrastructure costs. This trend spans from fledgling startups to established enterprises, reflecting the growing significance of cloud computing in modern business practices. Consequently, proficiency in cloud computing has become a common requirement in job postings within the data science field.

While there is a multitude of cloud computing services available, it is unnecessary to master all of them. Proficiency in one platform facilitates navigation and adaptation to others. For those unsure of where to begin, larger platforms such as AWS, GCP, or Azure offer comprehensive starting points for acquiring cloud computing skills.

2. MLOps
MLOps, short for Machine Learning Operations, comprises a set of methodologies and tools aimed at deploying machine learning (ML) models into production environments. By facilitating the streamlined deployment of ML models, MLOps endeavors to mitigate technical debt associated with machine learning applications. It aims to enhance model quality and performance while adhering to best practices in continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD). Additionally, MLOps emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring of machine learning models to ensure optimal functionality.

In recent years, MLOps has emerged as a highly coveted skill set for data scientists, as evidenced by the increasing prevalence of MLOps requirements in job postings. While the responsibility for MLOps tasks was traditionally assigned to Machine Learning Engineers, the evolving landscape now demands that Data Scientists possess a comprehensive understanding of MLOps concepts. This shift is driven by the necessity for Data Scientists to ensure seamless integration of their machine learning models into production environments, a task that requires intimate knowledge of the model’s intricacies.

For data scientists looking to advance their careers in 2024, acquiring knowledge about MLOps is imperative. A deep understanding of MLOps principles equips professionals with the necessary skills to navigate the intricacies of deploying ML models effectively. To delve deeper into the topic of MLOps, KDnuggets’ inaugural Tech Brief serves as an invaluable resource, offering comprehensive insights into all aspects of MLOps.

3. Big Data Technologies
Big Data encompasses three key characteristics, often referred to as the Three V’s: Volume, Velocity, and Variety. Volume pertains to the vast quantities of data generated, while Velocity describes the speed at which data is produced and processed. Variety encompasses the diverse range of data types, spanning from structured to unstructured formats.

In today’s business landscape, Big Data technologies play a crucial role in enabling companies to derive insights and develop products from their data assets. While possessing large volumes of data is advantageous, extracting value from it requires effective processing and analysis. Consequently, many companies are actively seeking data scientists with expertise in Big Data technologies to unlock the potential of their data resources.

Big Data technologies encompass various tools and technologies, typically categorized into four main types: data storage, data mining, data analytics, and data visualization. Job postings often highlight the importance of proficiency in certain tools, including Apache Hadoop, Apache Spark, MongoDB, Tableau, and Rapidminer.

While it may not be necessary to master every tool available, understanding a selection of them can significantly enhance one’s career prospects in the field of data science. By gaining proficiency in key Big Data technologies, individuals can position themselves for success in the rapidly evolving data-driven landscape.

4. Domain Expertise
In order to progress in their careers, data scientists require both technical proficiency and robust domain expertise. While a junior data scientist may focus primarily on achieving optimal technical metrics through machine learning modeling, a seasoned professional understands that the ultimate goal is to deliver tangible business value.

Domain expertise entails a deep understanding of the specific industry in which one operates. By familiarizing oneself with the intricacies of the business, data scientists can better align with the needs of stakeholders, select appropriate metrics for modeling, and frame projects in a manner that directly impacts the bottom line. In the evolving landscape of 2024, businesses increasingly recognize the immense value that data science can bring, making domain expertise even more crucial.

Acquiring domain expertise can be challenging, particularly if one is not already working within the desired industry. However, there are several strategies that aspiring data scientists can employ to gain this essential skill:

– Enroll in online courses and pursue certifications relevant to the industry of interest.
– Engage in active networking on social media platforms to connect with professionals in the target industry.
– Contribute to open-source projects related to the industry, gaining hands-on experience and exposure to real-world challenges.
– Undertake side projects that align with the industry’s domain, allowing for practical application of skills and knowledge.
– Seek out mentors who possess expertise in the desired field and can provide guidance and insights.
– Pursue internships or volunteer opportunities within companies or organizations operating within the target industry.

While these are some suggested approaches for acquiring domain expertise, individuals are encouraged to explore creative avenues to gain relevant experience and deepen their understanding of their chosen industry.

5. Ethics and Data Privacy
While some may view data as mere numbers or words in a database, it’s crucial to recognize that much of this data comprises private information that could potentially harm individuals and businesses if mishandled. In today’s digital age, where data collection and processing have become increasingly prevalent, the importance of ethical considerations and data privacy cannot be overstated.

Ethics in data science revolves around the moral principles that govern how data scientists should conduct their work. This field encompasses the potential impact of data science projects on individuals and society, emphasizing the importance of making morally sound decisions. Key concerns within this realm include bias, fairness, explainability, and consent, with a focus on ensuring that data-driven initiatives uphold ethical standards.

In contrast, data privacy pertains to the legal aspects of collecting, processing, managing, and sharing data. Its primary objective is to safeguard individuals’ personal information and prevent its misuse. Different regions may have distinct data privacy frameworks, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe, which specifically addresses personal data protection within the European Union.

Proficiency in ethics and data privacy has become indispensable for data scientists, given the severe repercussions of violating these principles. As stewards of sensitive information, data scientists must prioritize ethical considerations and adhere to data privacy regulations to maintain trust and integrity in their work.

In conclusion, as technology continues to evolve, businesses increasingly rely on innovative solutions driven by data science to address complex challenges. Data, often likened to the lifeblood of technology, powers decision-making processes across industries, from business enterprises to government agencies and individual users. However, the effective utilization of data necessitates expertise in managing, processing, interpreting, and storing it—a role that data scientists fulfill with their specialized skills.

In this article, we have explored five essential skills for data scientists in 2024, excluding programming language and machine learning. Cloud computing emerges as a vital skill, enabling organizations to scale their operations and reduce infrastructure costs through internet-based services. Additionally, proficiency in MLOps equips data scientists with the tools and techniques needed to deploy machine learning models effectively in production environments. Understanding Big Data technologies empowers professionals to derive actionable insights from vast datasets, while domain expertise enables them to align data science initiatives with business objectives. Moreover, ethics and data privacy knowledge are indispensable, ensuring that data-driven initiatives uphold moral principles and legal standards while safeguarding individuals’ privacy rights. By mastering these skills, data scientists can navigate the dynamic landscape of data science and drive meaningful impact across diverse sectors in the digital age.