Student Highlights
Upskilling to support a career in Climate Science
Ted Devine is undertaking postgraduate study to further his understanding of data and support his role in the Resilience and Climate Adaption Team at Sydney Water.
“In my role, I am tasked with understanding how our assets are affected by Climate Change and how we can be mitigating these issues,” Ted said.
As a graduate helping Sydney Water get to Net Carbon Zero by 2030 and understanding what the climate will look like in 2100, Ted is required to sift through extensive data sets.
“I work with lots of spreadsheets which take a lot of time to prepare and get useful information from.
“The Master of Data Science will help me to understand how best to present the information to a larger audience, so they understand the key points of the data without having to see the entire picture.
“I have help at my job at the moment, but I am hoping that with this degree, I can process this by myself and become a more useful asset to the team,” Ted said.
Only starting his postgraduate program recently, Ted is already thoroughly enjoying his online study options so far.
“This study period has been exceptional as I can work at my own pace and go back to things I have not fully understood.
“I study after work and spend maybe 3-4 hours a week completing lectures and going through tutorial questions. It is easy enough to cope with in my full-time role.
“The teachers are also really supportive with questions and issues,” he said.
Ted has also already found value in his studies, explaining that he feels more equipped to make analysis and decisions in the workplace.
“I have learnt that while much of the data I work with can lean towards one answer, it is only when fully analysed does the correct answer show itself.
“Without the information I have learnt so far, I would have made lots of ill-informed decisions about the best path forward and potentially put some projects at risk,” he said.
Ted believes that the combination of both his undergraduate degree from the University of Newcastle, along with the Master of Data Science will show current and future employers that he is very employable.
“I believe my combined studies will show that I am dedicated and technically driven when working towards goals, which is always a plus in the workforce.
“My two degrees will allow me to use my skills in physics and problem solving and my new skills in data representation to better prepare myself as an analyst or manager.
“It will help me with my career progression and gaining recognition for hard work,” Ted said.
Ted is a firm believer in students exploring their passions through tertiary education.
“I think you should try anything that piques your interest, you can always change degree or try new courses if the first one you chose isn’t for you.
“The University of Newcastle offers so many opportunities for community engagement too so I would encourage prospective students to get out there and meet new people,” Ted said.
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Ted Devine
Postgraduate student Ted Devine is undertaking a Master of Data Science to support his role in the Resilience and Climate Adaption Team at Sydney Water.
This degree will help me better understand the data I currently work with and ensure I can convey the correct information to my colleagues.
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