With the rapid rise of generative AI and large language models (LLMs), the fields of data science and data engineering are facing an inflection point. What does this technological revolution mean for current students, working professionals, and the future of these careers?

This interactive campus-wide panel, moderated by Dr. Ilieva Ageenko, Senior Lecturer at UNC Charlotte’s School of Data Science, brings together seasoned leaders from industry and academia to explore where the field is headed. Panelists will discuss the evolution of the data scientist role in the age of AI, strategies for remaining professionally relevant, and the emergence of new opportunities and skill sets. The conversation will delve into historical pivots in tech, provide projections for the next 5+ years, and explore how to position yourself now to thrive in an AI-first world.

Featuring:

• Tom Fisher, Managing Partner, Four Doors Down
   
• Madlen Ivanova, Director of Data Science, Lowe’s
   
• Amaresh Tripathy, Managing Partner, AuxoAI; Former SVP, Genpact

Whether you're just entering the field or looking to future-proof your career, this session offers practical insight and inspiration for navigating the AI era with purpose.

Moderator: Ilieva Ageenko, Senior Lecturer, School of Data Science, UNC Charlotte

Dr. Ilieva Ageenko is an AI expert with over 30 years of experience in data-driven business innovation. Before joining UNC Charlotte in 2024, she served as Managing Director and Head of Audit Innovation at Truist, where she led the integration of advanced analytics, machine learning, and visualization technologies. Her previous leadership roles include executive positions at Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Truist, as well as leading the Model Risk Management Advisory Practice at Grant Thornton. She has advised top financial institutions and their boards on AI and risk modeling. Ilieva has been a leader in innovation strategy, talent development, and digital transformation, including pioneering mobile banking in the U.S. Her research focuses on responsible AI, bias mitigation, and data storytelling. She is also an active mentor, particularly supporting women in STEM and data science. She earned her Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv.

Panelists: 

Thomas Fisher, Managing Partner, Four Doors Down Investment and Advisory Service

Tom Fisher is a strategic technology executive with a track record of leading digital transformation and IT innovation across global enterprises. He has held senior leadership roles including SVP of Innovation at SAS, CTO at eBay and MapR, and CIO positions at Oracle, SuccessFactors (SAP), and Qualcomm. Tom specializes in cloud technologies, SaaS, and enterprise IT strategy. Known for turning around complex tech operations and building high-performance teams, he brings deep insights into current tech trends, product strategy, and AI-driven innovation. He earned his Bachelor's in Science from UNC Charlotte.

Madlen Ivanova, Director of Data Science, Lowe’s

Madlen Ivanova leads analytics, data science, and engineering in the Store organization at Lowe’s, where her team drives innovation through AI-powered solutions. Previously, she led the Digital Data Science team, developing enterprise-wide recommender systems. Before Lowe’s, she worked in software consulting, helping organizations advance predictive modeling and operational analytics. She founded the Charlotte chapter of Women in Data Science (WiDS) in partnership with UNC Charlotte in 2018. Madlen holds a B.S. in Computer Science and an M.A. in Data Science and Business Analytics from UNC Charlotte, where she is also pursuing a Ph.D. in Computer Science focused on recommender systems.

Amaresh Tripathy, Managing Partner, AuxoAI, Former SVP & Global Analytics Leader, Genpact

Amaresh Tripathy is a leader in AI and analytics strategy, currently serving as Managing Partner at AuxoAI. Formerly, he led Genpact’s global analytics division, overseeing 9,000 professionals and driving rapid growth in AI, cloud, and smart software. A former PwC Partner, he advised Fortune 500 clients on embedding analytics into core operations. He is also a recognized thought leader and industry speaker on predictive analytics and data-driven business transformation. Amaresh is an Adjunct Professor and was the founding chair of UNC Charlotte’s School of Data Science Advisory Board. He holds an M.S. in Transportation Systems from The University of Texas at Austin.