Meeting of the Minds – Expanding the Data Science Landscape

This talk highlights the growing role of community colleges in advancing data science education, with a focus on El Camino College’s initiatives to build bridges between disciplines, industry, and diverse student populations.

Key takeaways include:

• Learn How Colleges Connect Learning to Careers: See how community colleges are linking students to real-world applications through local industry partnerships, faculty development, and dual-enrollment pathways with high schools.
• Explore Pathways into Data Science: Discover strategies for expanding the pipeline into data science and related fields, opening doors to in-demand career opportunities.
• Reimagine Technical Education for Today’s Needs: Gain insights on how technical education can evolve at the intersections of equity, interdisciplinarity, and workforce demands.

Meet the Presenter: Dr. Solomon Russell

As Professor and Chair of Computer Science at El Camino College in Los Angeles, Dr. Solomon Russell, will share how their department has developed one of the first community college–level data science programs in California, inspired by models at UC Berkeley and UC San Diego, and tailored to the unique mission of a community college. We’ll explore how data science is being connected to disciplines ranging from sociology and child development to business and biology, using Jupyter-based modules and open educational resources that empower faculty across the curriculum.