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By Krysten Brenlla

Eugene Cruz has spent a decade as an educator in Miami-Dade County, teaching future generations the fundamentals of mathematics and computer science. As a mathematics major, he knew numbers were always his thing. However, as he became more involved with computer science, he began looking for new ways to enhance his skills.

Thats when he discovered data science and machine learning, a new industry blending data, mathematics, statistics and programming to develop and enhance algorithms that solve real-world problems. His interest in using data science and machine learning led him to 4Geeks Academys Data Science and Machine Learning Bootcamp a connection made possible by the Miami Tech Talent Coalition, a collaboration of employers, academia and community organizations on a mission to fuel Miamis tech talent pipeline by creating new pathways into tech for residents. Its part of Miami Tech Works, an multi-year economic development initiative funded by a $10 million grant from the US government.

The boot camp at 4Geeks was so beneficial because it was just an awesome, structured program you go into it with a cohort of peers and support from teachers and mentors, said Cruz [pictured above]. Plus, the program also featured interview prep and job search preparation. They really offer mentorship for life.

In addition to mentorship, interview prep, and job search preparation, the 4Geeks Academys Data Science and Machine Learning Bootcamp also showed participants statistics and programs like Python, SQL, Looker (Google Data Studio), and StreamLit. Through the program, participants also have the opportunity to create predictive models using Python, Pandas and Numpy, while exploring algorithms like Close Neighbors and Decision Trees through supervised and unsupervised learning techniques.

At 4Geeks Academy, our mission is to help people launch successful tech careers and get better jobs. With no prior experience required, our students becomeFull Stack Developers,Data Scientists and Machine Learning Engineers, andCybersecurity Analystsin about four months. After graduation, they land high paying jobs in a matter of 3-6 months. On top of that, all 4Geeks students receive unlimited 1-1 coding mentorship and career support mentorship, said Alisa Landra, Miamis campus manager at 4Geeks Academy.

Our partnership with Miami Tech Works helps us to address one of the biggest barriers that those looking to launch new tech careers face the financial barrier, Landra continued. Through the Good Jobs Challenge Grant, 4Geeks was able to train 33 participants with scholarships. This allowed them to be placed in higher paying jobs without investment upfront on their end. We are looking forward to another year with Miami Tech Works, and training even more students.

Since participating in the program, Cruz used the skills he learned to land a new opportunity blending his experiences with mathematics, computer science, and now machine learning at Ransom Everglades School. Starting this August, Cruz will help teach Advanced Placement Computer Science and Mathematics courses, in addition to supporting students participating in different extracurricular computer science activities specifically contests and competitions in programming, data science, and machine learning.

Judging by where Ive been, theres a lot of interest in students because they know its a big topic and driving force in the tech field, Cruz continued. If students continue to be exposed at a younger age to the career possibilities of machine learning and data science, theyll be able to handle it.

For the future, Cruz is looking forward to teaching the next generation of advanced and gifted students the fundamentals of data science and machine learning. He hopes to continue building an interested community that will help him to build new programs, curriculum, and learning opportunities for students and the local Miami Tech community.

Im excited to grow in the same city I grew up in Miami is building up, Cruz said. Its all positive growth.

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Your involvement can make a significant difference in shaping the future of Miamis tech industry, creating a vibrant and sustainable tech talent ecosystem. Together, participants can continue to build Miami as an innovative hub and a desirable destination for businesses and tech talent.

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Krysten Brenlla is the Media Relations Specialist for Jackson Health System, where she manages media relations for the health system's cardiology, neurosurgery, rehabilitation, and Miami Transplant Institute service lines. Prior to her role at Jackson, Krysten worked at Florida International University as an Account Manager for FIU's Office of Engagement. In 2022, Krysten obtained her master's degree in Global Strategic Communication from FIU.

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Local teacher excels in 4Geeks bootcamp and lands new opportunity in data science and machine learning - Refresh Miami