E532 Eddie Kirkland, Principal Data Scientist at ICF

Today's guest is Eddie Kirkland, Principal Data Scientist at ICF. Founded in 1969, ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider that combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change and shape the future. Through deep domain expertise and cutting-edge digital services, the team at ICF are helping clients contribute to a healthier planet, create more resilient and equitable communities, and support and grow economic development.

Eddie is currently a Principal Data Scientist with ICF, serving the Centers for Disease Control in the metro Atlanta area. A data science team leader with proven generative AI, machine learning and software development skills, he pairs data science and engineering ability with solution design and communication acumen gained in 20 years of organizational leadership. Eddie is recognized as a strategic leader and contributor on data science teams with a dynamic ability to translate complex concepts into relatable and actionable information.

In this episode, Eddie talks about:

His career journey from music to a passion for data science

Combining subject matter and technological expertise for global betterment,

Applying AI expertise ethically across diverse client projects,

How Generative AI unlocks text data's potential, requiring ethical use,

Piloting generative AI to transform data processing tasks,

Creating safe spaces for AI experimentation and small models,

How ICF provides a supportive culture and meaningful, impactful work