Suggestions
Kathy Copic
Formerly Insight Fellows Program, CERN Physics
Professional Background
Kathy Copic is a distinguished professional with a diverse and remarkable career that bridges the worlds of science and data. Most recently, Kathy served as the Vice President of Growth at Insight Data Science, an influential organization that helps individuals pivot into high-demand careers in artificial intelligence (AI), data science, data engineering, DevOps engineering, health data, security engineering, and consensus engineering. Under her leadership, Insight Data Science has guided over 3000 fellows, equipping them with the skills necessary to excel in some of the most competitive data teams in North America. This innovative fellowship program not only focuses on enabling career transitions but also emphasizes practical, hands-on skills that are critical in today’s job market.
Prior to her impactful role at Insight, Kathy dedicated approximately 15 years of her career to advancements in experimental particle physics. Her extensive work included positions at renowned laboratories such as CERN, Fermilab, SLAC, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, and Brookhaven National Laboratory. Here, Kathy harnessed her analytical skills and passion for research to contribute to groundbreaking projects in the field of particle physics and to deepen our understanding of the universe.
Education and Achievements
Kathy’s educational background is as impressive as her professional career. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Government from the prestigious Cornell University, which laid the foundation for her analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. She then pursued her Doctorate in Physics at the University of Michigan, where her research and dedication led her to be at the forefront of experimental physics, specifically during her time as a PhD student in the Collider Detector Facility (CDF) at Fermilab.
Kathy's academic journey reflects her commitment to knowledge and excellence in a field that is often perceived as intimidating but is crucial for numerous advancements in technology and science. Her technical acumen, combined with her leadership skills, allows her to connect with a diverse range of audiences, whether they are budding data scientists or seasoned physicists.
Notable Positions and Contributions
Throughout her career, Kathy has held various pivotal positions within Insight Data Science. She served as the Interim Chief Operations Officer, where she oversaw operations and ensured the seamless functioning of the fellowship programs. As Vice President of Growth & Strategic Partnerships, she played an instrumental role in forming crucial partnerships that expanded the reach and impact of Insight’s initiatives.
In her capacity as the Director of Growth and as the Program Director for Growth and New Initiatives, Kathy was pivotal in strategizing the future direction of the organization and developing new pathways for students and professionals to engage with the data science community. These roles allowed her to not only apply her scientific background but also leverage her experience to foster growth in other professionals who are now making their mark in the data space.
Before her transition to the data science realm, Kathy worked as a Staff Scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, contributing to significant research in particle physics while in collaboration with other leading scientists. As a Postdoctoral scholar with the ATLAS Collaboration at Columbia University, Kathy further established her expertise in high-energy physics, showcasing her ability to work collaboratively in large international teams dedicated to resolving some of physics' greatest mysteries.
Additionally, through her Graduate Research in Experimental Particle Physics at the University of Michigan, Kathy not only acquired practical experience but also honed her skills in critical thinking and scientific inquiry that would later prove invaluable in her move towards data science and education.
Personal Endeavors and Philosophy
Kathy Copic believes in the power of education as a transformative tool. Her journey from particle physics to data science demonstrates her commitment to continuous learning and adaptability. She is a strong advocate for mentorship and aims to inspire others, particularly women, to pursue careers in STEM fields where they can make impactful contributions.
Kathy is also passionate about fostering diversity within the tech industry, advocating for a range of perspectives that enrich problem-solving and innovation. Her leadership at Insight Data Science emphasizes not only technical proficiency but also the importance of soft skills in leadership and collaboration.
Driven by a desire for continual improvement, Kathy embodies the essence of lifelong learning, embracing challenges and using them as opportunities to grow not just personally, but also to influence the careers of others positively. This dedication has made her an asset to every institution she has been a part of, leading to her recognized expertise and respected voice in both scientific and data science arenas.