#347 Democratizing Data Access: Blake Burch on Low-Code Solutions and AI

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we are joined by Blake Burch, co-founder and CEO of Shipyard, a modern data operations platform. Blake starts by introducing himself and explaining how his background in marketing led him to teach himself SQL and Python to overcome the repetitive tasks he faced. This journey sparked the creation of Shipyard, which simplifies data workflows by allowing users to move data end-to-end either through low-code methods or by writing custom code.

Blake shares how his experiences at PMG, where he worked with brands like OpenTable and Sephora, highlighted the challenges of data management and automation. He talks about the necessity of building a tool like Shipyard to templatize solutions, reducing the reliance on complex and unwieldy Excel formulas and manual data handling. By creating reusable templates, Shipyard allows businesses to automate data processes, leading to more efficient operations and better use of data.

The conversation delves into the role of AI in data operations. Blake explains how AI can assist in generating code and automating tasks, which can significantly enhance productivity. He shares his experience of using AI tools like ChatGPT to write code and how this has influenced the development of Shipyard’s features. Mehmet and Blake discuss the potential for AI to act as a coding assistant, helping users to automate and optimize data workflows without needing extensive programming knowledge.

Blake also touches on the importance of integrating with other data platforms, such as Databricks, to enhance interoperability and provide high-level observability into data processes. He emphasizes the need for businesses to focus on specific use cases and actionable data to avoid being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of available information. By prioritizing business needs and using tools like Shipyard, companies can transform their data from a burden into a valuable asset.

The episode concludes with Blake offering advice to those starting their journey in data science or entrepreneurship. He stresses the importance of focusing on solving real business problems with data rather than getting bogged down by technical details. Blake also highlights the significance of partnerships and integrations in scaling a business and providing comprehensive solutions to customers. For more information about Shipyard and to stay updated on the latest in data operations, listeners are encouraged to visit Shipyard’s website and subscribe to their newsletter, All Hands on Data.

Blake Burch is the co-founder and CEO of Shipyard, a low-code orchestration platform that helps data teams launch, monitor, and share data workflows. Previously, he was Head of Data for PMG, where he led end-to-end data strategy and solutions for brands like OpenTable, Travelocity, Sephora, and Gap Inc., scaling performance through algorithms and automation.

https://allhandsondata.substack.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/blakeburch/

01:00 Blake Burch's Background and Journey

01:43 Transition from Marketing to Technology

02:08 Challenges and Learning SQL and Python

04:23 Birth of Shipyard

05:06 Scaling and Use Cases of Shipyard

08:54 AI and Automation in Shipyard

14:22 Data Management and Best Practices

19:41 Future of AI and Data Teams

29:26 Balancing Technical and Leadership Roles

31:16 Partnerships and Integrations

34:31 Future Plans for Shipyard

36:26 Advice for Aspiring Data Professionals

37:44 Conclusion and Farewell