24: From Ballet Mech Engineer, to HR Tech Data Engineer: Larissa Mendes

Data Career Transformations

In this episode, Bolaji Oyejide interviews Larissa Mendes, a Level 3 Data Engineer at Gupy, who shares her unique journey from mechanical engineering to data engineering.

Larissa discusses her experiences with data quality challenges, the importance of community support, and her current tech stack at Gupy. She also provides valuable insights on overcoming interview challenges and the significance of effective communication with stakeholders.

Larissa emphasizes the need for continuous learning and the power of networking in advancing one's career in data.

Takeaways:

• Larissa transitioned from mechanical engineering to data engineering by exploring her interest in programming.
• She faced challenges during her first technical interview but learned to move on from questions she couldn't answer.
• Building reliable data pipelines is a key aspect of her role as a data engineer.
• Data quality issues can significantly impact client trust and require careful management.
• Effective communication with stakeholders is crucial for delivering value through data.
• Larissa emphasizes the importance of community support for career growth in data.
• She encourages aspiring data professionals to find their passion and connect with like-minded individuals.
• Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies are essential in the data field.
• Larissa's proudest project involved migrating critical queries to dbt, improving developer experience.
• Networking and learning from others can enhance one's skills and career opportunities.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Larissa Mendes and Her Journey
• 05:48 From Mechanical Engineering to Data Engineering
• 12:32 The Transition to Data Engineering
• 17:33 Navigating Technical Interviews
• 19:57 Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Data Engineers
• 20:35 Building Confidence in Professional Environments
• 21:34 Exploring the Tech Stack at Guppy
• 23:20 The Power of dbt in Data Engineering
• 24:51 Team Dynamics and Roles in Data Engineering
• 26:45 Learning from Data Disasters
• 29:23 Communicating Data Value to Stakeholders
• 31:34 Managing Stakeholder Expectations
• 34:12 Empathy in Data Requests
• 36:48 Proud Projects in Data Engineering
• 40:18 Advice for Advancing in Data Careers

Speakers:

• Guest: Larissa Mendes, Data Engineer II at Gupy
• Host: Bolaji Oyejide, Community Manager at dbt Labs

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