What’s Your data path?
Here are some resources to help you learn more about yourself,
potential careers, and how different jobs use data.
Career Exploration Resources and Tools
Below are some free websites that can help you explore your own interests and possible careers.
MEFA Pathway
BHCC Career Coach
MassHire360
MassHire Career Centers
O*NET
CareerOneStop
MEFA Pathway This is a free online website to help students in grades 6-12 plan for college and careers. Students can register for a free individual account (some students may have access through their school). The site includes interest and skill assessments, career information, a college search tool, a resume creator, and a scholarship search engine. In Massachusetts, the site works with MyCAP to help students identify future academic and career options. Learn More
BHCC Career Coach This is a free website developed by Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC). The site guides students through an online assessment that measures students’ interests, strengths, and values; it also provides tools to explore career pathways that students can explore within BHCC. Learn More
MassHire360 This is a free online career resource developed by the State of Massachusetts. The site provides assessments, information about jobs and careers, and in-state higher education and training programs that can support students’ career goals. The following link to MassHire360 is offered through Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC); after accessing the site through BHCC, students can create their own personal account. Learn More
MassHire Career Centers Multiple centers across Massachusetts provide free one-on-one support to help people explore career paths and find new jobs. The following link describes the services available and lists center locations: Learn More
O*NET To help with career exploration, this free online tool provides detailed information on over 900 occupations and helps match individual skills and goals to specific jobs. The site is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor. Learn More
CareerOneStop This is a free website designed to help people plan, train, and search for jobs and careers. The site includes assessments, career information, tools to search for training and education programs, and guidance when looking for a job. The site is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor. Learn More
Exploring a Variety of Jobs and How they use Data
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Architects
What they do:
“Plan and design houses, factories, office buildings, and other structures”*
How do they use data in their work?*
- To inform decisions about materials, spatial layouts, and building systems selections
- To predict the environmental and economic impacts of new developments
- To optimize site selection and building sustainability
- To understand client needs and preferences
- To assess financial viability of potential projects
- To manage project timelines and costs
- To analyze space and energy usage patterns and to evaluate performance of built structures
Bioengineers and biomedical engineers
What they do:
“Combine engineering principles with science to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems, and software”*
“Blend engineering with life sciences (biology, chemistry) to design and create solutions for health, agriculture, and environmental systems, working on everything from artificial organs, prosthetics, and medical imaging to tissue engineering, developing biocompatible materials, and improving health management systems… bioengineering can have broader applications (agriculture, environmental), while biomedical engineering often focuses more directly on human health and medical devices”*
Google Gemini AI overview in response to the following prompt: “What do bioengineers and biomedical engineers do?
How do they use data in their work?*
- To analyze medical imaging data to build models and tools that can assist with early detection and support more accurate diagnosis
- To analyze large datasets of patient genetic, lifestyle, and medical history to develop personalized treatment plans
- To create models that can predict disease risk, progression, and prevention
- To develop sensors and methods to analyze wearable devices and monitor patient conditions
- To test and refine medical device designs
- To analyze the operations of healthcare systems and identify ways to maximize efficiency
Chemical engineers
What they do:
“Apply the principles of chemistry, physics, and engineering to design equipment and processes for manufacturing products such as gasoline, detergents, and paper”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To monitor and control engineering processes by analyzing sensor data such as temperature, pressure, pH, and flow
- To predict chemical activity and model reactions
- To maximize production efficiency and improve product quality
- To ensure safety and compliance with environmental regulations
Civil engineers
What they do:
“Plan, design, and supervise the construction and maintenance of building and infrastructure projects”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To predict and monitor the safety and longevity of structures through sensors on structural stress, temperature, and vibration
- To maximize efficiency and sustainability of construction schedules using predictive models and past project data
- To map transportation networks and patterns, which can help reduce traffic congestion and improve flow
- To model stormwater drainage capacity and predict the effects of precipitation on communities
Electrical and electronics engineers
What they do:
“Design, develop, and test electrical and electronic equipment, components, and systems”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To design and test the performance of new products and enhance safety
- To identify potential equipment failures and plan for maintenance, using system monitoring data
- To maximize energy efficiency, using energy consumption data
- To reduce power outages and optimize energy distribution, using smart meter and sensor data from power grids
- To analyze and mitigate electrical noise in electronic components
Environmental engineers
What they do:
“Use engineering disciplines in developing solutions to problems of planetary health”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To monitor and predict air and water quality, using data from sensors
- To build models and predict impacts of climate change or land-use development
- To optimize wastewater treatment, water distribution, waste, and landfill use
- To maximize land-use efficiency and sustainability
Art directors
What they do:
“Responsible for the visual style and images in magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and movie and television productions”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To gain insights about their audience, using demographic, psychographic, and behavioral data
- To inform the narrative and visual direction of their creative work
- To translate complex data sets into clear, compelling visuals that tell a story and make information engaging for the audience
- To measure the effectiveness of their creative work through data like click-through rates, conversion rates, and engagement rates
Fashion designers
What they do:
“Create clothing, accessories, and footwear”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To identify emerging styles and forecast trends
- To analyze browsing and purchase history to tailor designs to customer preferences
- To predict demand to optimize production and inventory management
- To improve sizing and fit of items using 3D body mapping and data from returns
Graphic designers
What they do:
“Create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To convert complex datasets into easy-to-understand visuals, such as bar graphs, charts, and maps
- To inform design elements using analytics and user engagement metrics
- To enhance clarity and readability
- To iteratively test, measure, and improve their designs for better results
Industrial designers
What they do:
“Combine art, business, and engineering to develop the concepts for manufactured products”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To identify preferences and physical requirements from user research, such as surveys
- To identify potential failure points and strengthen materials through simulation and analysis
- To improve the usability of interactive elements, such as buttons and touch surfaces, using interaction heat maps
- To streamline manufacturing processes and reduce waste
- To anticipate future trends through predictive analytics
Interior designers
What they do:
“Make indoor spaces functional, safe, and beautiful by determine space requirements and selecting essential and decorative items”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To analyze client preferences and personalize design
- To optimize spatial layouts for better flow, using data from occupancy sensors, wi-fi logs, and heat mapping
- To inform decisions on lighting, acoustics, and temperature to ensure comfort and energy efficiency
- To manage project timelines
Accountants and auditors
What they do:
“Prepare and examine financial records”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To detect errors or fraud in an organization’s financial data through abnormal transactions
- To examine past spending patterns and plan future budgets
- To identify optimal ways to invest funds, lower costs, minimize tax burdens, and maximize profits
- To examine trends in organizations’ key performance indicators to identify emerging areas of strength and potential risks
- To examine and reconcile financial transactions
Financial analysts
What they do:
Guide businesses and individuals in decisions about expending money to attain profit”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To forecast future sales and cash flow using historical data
- To examine investment opportunities by examining financial statements, market trends, and economic indicators
- To reduce credit, market, or operational risks
- To monitor organizational performance using key performance indicators
- To understand customers through data on consumer behavior
Personal financial advisors
What they do:
“Provide advice to help individuals manage their money and plan for their financial future”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To provide customized financial plans based on clients’ characteristics and financial goals, drawing on both client data and large-scale data on market patterns
- To manage investments by monitoring asset performance, identifying growth opportunities, and minimizing risks
- To support financial planning and budgeting by predicting future revenue and spending
Community health workers
What they do:
“Promote wellness by helping people adopt healthy behaviors. They implement programs and advocate for people who may have limited access to health resources and social services”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To identify emerging health trends within a community by analyzing local health data, surveys, and service records
- To monitor program outcomes and evaluate whether interventions are improving health behaviors and access to care
- To guide the allocation of resources by pinpointing neighborhoods or populations with the greatest needs
- To inform policy development and support evidence-based decisions that strengthen community health and advance health equity
School and career counselors and advisors
What they do:
“Help students develop academic and social skills” “Help people choose a path to employment”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To strengthen individual best-fit advising
- To track completion of postsecondary application process
- To learn from trends in student data and guide advising practices
Social workers
What they do:
“Help people prevent and cope with problems in their everyday lives”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To understand community needs more fully by analyzing surveys, public records, and digital engagement patterns
- To design and implement programs that respond directly to documented gaps in services or support
- To monitor program effectiveness through measurable outcomes and ensure accountability to clients, funders, and the broader community
Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors
What they do:
“Advise people on a range of issues, such as those relating to alcoholism, additions, or depression”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To identify trends, measure outcomes and make informed decisions to enhance patient care within treatment centers
Information security analysts
What they do:
“Plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To identify vulnerabilities and risks within technologies and the internet
- To provide businesses with a comprehensive review of internal and external risks
- To convert data into actionable information
Software developers
What they do:
“Design computer applications or programs”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To improve decision making throughout the software-development lifecycle
- To increase protection against software bugs
- To enhance user experience and satisfaction
- To increase efficiency and productivity
Web developers and digital designers
What they do:
“Create and maintain websites… develop, create, and test website or interface layout, functions, and navigation for usability”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To understand user needs by conducting research, analyzing behavior patterns, and mapping user journeys
- To test and refine design choices through data‑driven evaluation of usability, accessibility, and user engagement
- To improve site performance and overall user satisfaction by monitoring metrics such as load times, navigation flow, and interaction rates
- To reduce design costs and maximize return on investment by using data insights to prioritize features and streamline development
Carpenters
What they do:
“Construct, repair, and install building frameworks and structures made from wood and other materials”*How do they use data in their work?*
Carpenters may use data in ways that are similar to those of building inspectors and construction managers. Here are some additional examples:
- To enhance safety, quality control, and cost management through continuous monitoring and predictive maintenance insights
- To transmit data to mobile devices to monitor material conditions
Construction and building inspectors
What they do:
“Ensure that construction meets building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications”*How do they use data in their work?*
Building inspectors may use data in ways that are similar to construction managers. Here are some examples:
- To analyze information from sensors, schedules, and environmental data, including predictive analytics that forecast weather impacts on timelines and resource needs
- To identify potential risks and safety conditions by reviewing inspection data, material performance, and historical project patterns
- To increase efficiency and strengthen decision making by using real‑time project data to guide scheduling, staffing, and material use
Construction managers
What they do:
“Plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish”*How do they use data in their work?*
Construction managers may use data in ways that are similar to those of building inspectors. Here are some examples:
- To increase efficiency and strengthen decision making by using real‑time project data to guide scheduling, staffing, and material use
- To document project progress, safety conditions, and compliance with building standards
- To analyze information from sensors, schedules, and environmental data, including predictive analytics that forecast weather impacts on timelines and resource needs
Electricians
What they do:
“Install, maintain, and repair electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To identify prefabrication metrics
- To enhance safety and compliance
Plumbers
What they do:
“Install and repair piping fixtures and systems”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To prevent equipment failures through predictive maintenance informed by sensor data and usage patterns
- To diagnose issues more accurately using smart tools that capture real‑time performance data
- To optimize resource management by tracking material use, job duration, and system efficiency
Actors and actresses
What they do:
“Express ideas and portray characters in theater, film, television, and other performing arts media”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To understand audience interests and industry trends
- To help align casting demands and career planning
- To create and manage digital and AI-based likenesses online
Dancers and choreographers
What they do:
“Use dance performances to express ideas and stories”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To inspire new ideas for movement based on patterns in datasets
- To create digital scores or animated backdrops for performances
- To support dancer training, technique improvement, health, and improved performances with data from videos or motion sensors
- To understand audience types and preferences
- To predict future ticket sales and market trends
Musicians and singers
What they do:
“Play instruments or sing in performances for live audiences and in recording studios”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To understand audience types and preferences
- To learn from streaming and social media metrics
- To learn about and manage revenue opportunities
- To identify compatible collaborators, labels, and sponsors
- To understand content that resonates with audiences and to inform creative development
- To understand regional dynamics and manage tour planning
- To inform marketing and promotion
Producers and directors
What they do:
“Make business and creative decisions about film, television, stage, and other productions”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To understand audience preferences and trends
- To make casting decisions
- To decide what content to produce and distribute
- To inform and tailor marketing and advertising campaigns
- To make decisions about the best media channels to reach specific audiences
- To identify opportunities to improve audience experiences
- To identify strategies for generating new revenue
Elementary, Middle, and high school principals
What they do:
“Oversee all school operations, including daily school activities”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To prioritize key indicators such as student attendance, reading growth, and discipline referrals
- To establish performance goals and inform curriculum
- To make information more accessible for teachers
- To evaluate teacher performance
Kindergarten, elementary, middle, and high school teachers
What they do:
In Kindergarten and elementary years: “Instruct young students in basic subjects in order to prepare them for future schooling” In high school: “Teach academic lessons and various skills that students will need to attend college and to enter the job market”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To differentiate and personalize instruction
- To adapt teaching strategies, pacing, and instructional materials
Librarians and library media specialists
What they do:
“Help people find information and conduct research for personal and professional use”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To identify which materials to acquire
- To identify and eliminate outdated materials
- To allocate budgets more effectively
Cooks
What they do:
“Season and prepare foods, including soups, salads, entrees, and desserts”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To track inventory and reduce waste by aligning purchasing with consumption patterns
- To create profitable menus by analyzing sales data
- To ensure consistency and safety in food preparation using smart kitchen devices
- To create new flavor combinations using chemical composition data
- To gain customer insights through data from social media, restaurant reviews, and reservation systems
Food service managers
What they do:
“Responsible for the daily operation of restaurants or other establishments that prepare and serve food and beverages”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To track inventory and reduce waste across the supply chain
- To maximize profitability by identifying, promoting, or removing menu items based on sales data
- To track staff performance, analyze turnover rates, and adjust scheduling to match customer demand
- To create customer profiles for personalized marketing
- To track equipment to ensure compliance with food safety
Physicians and surgeons
What they do:
Diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses and address health maintenance”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To process and interpret large volumes of structured and unstructured health data to support accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions
- To use data-mining techniques that reveal patterns in patient histories and clinical records, enabling more effective and personalized care
- To integrate diverse data sources, such as labs, imaging, and monitoring devices, to guide evidence-based medical practice
Physical therapists
What they do:
“Help injured or ill people improve movement and manage pain”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To evaluate treatment effectiveness by analyzing patient data, progress metrics, and outcomes over time
- To personalize care through predictive analytics that anticipate patient responses and inform adjustments to therapy plans
- To incorporate data from wearable devices, telehealth platforms, and continuous-monitoring tools to track mobility, adherence, and recovery trends
Registered nurses
What they do:
“Provide and coordinate patient care and educate patients and the public about various health conditions”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To strengthen clinical decision making by using patient data, care protocols, and monitoring systems to guide interventions
- To support population‑health management by identifying trends in patient needs, risk factors, and care utilization
- To enhance patient monitoring through real‑time data from electronic health records, sensors, and bedside technologies
Veterinarians
What they do:
“Care for the health of animals and work to protect public health”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To identify trends in client behavior and animal health that inform targeted outreach, marketing, and preventive‑care strategies
- To improve staff efficiency by analyzing appointment patterns, peak‑hour demand, and workflow performance
- To manage inventory, scheduling, and financial operations using data that highlights supply needs, service utilization, and revenue patterns
Judges and hearing officers
What they do:
Oversee legal matters in court or administrative proceedings”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To streamline case management processes and predict timelines
- To automate administrative tasks using AI tools
- To inform bail and sentencing decisions through risk-assessment tools and review of prior records
- To monitor disparities in outcomes using demographic data
- To review whether decisions align with evidence-based practices
Lawyers
What they do:
“Advise and represent clients on legal proceedings or transactions”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To determine case strategy from data on judge tendencies and opposing counsel’s behavior
- To conduct legal research using AI and analytics tools
- To calculate damages and validate arguments with statistical evidence
- To improve a firm’s efficiency and profitability
Microbiologist
What they do:
“Study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To perform descriptive and statistical analyses to help determine appropriate medication offerings and dosages
- To help predict if a patient’s infection will worsen
- To publish research in science magazines and share knowledge throughout the field
Chemists and materials scientists
What they do:
“Research and analyze the chemical properties of substances to develop new materials, products, or knowledge”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To analyze chemical data and identify trends by using coding and data‑science tools that model reaction outcomes and optimize experimental conditions
- To predict yields and determine ideal catalysts or reaction parameters by modeling both successful and unsuccessful experiments
- To apply computational chemistry techniques that reveal patterns in molecular behavior and support the design of new materials or compounds
- To work across sectors, such as consulting, systems design, and enterprise management, where chemical data informs strategic decisions and innovation
Economists
What they do:
“Conduct research, prepare reports, and evaluate issues related to monetary and fiscal policy; may collect and analyze statistical data”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To work with large public and private datasets that illuminate economic behavior, inequality, industry performance, and long‑term trends
- To test economic theories that were previously unmeasurable by applying econometric methods to real‑world data
- To forecast economic scenarios, such as interest‑rate changes or market shifts, using models developed from historical and current data
- To analyze time‑use data that reveals how individuals allocate limited time across work, caregiving, and other responsibilities
- To apply econometric training that blends economic theory, statistical modeling, and programming to produce rigorous, data‑driven insights
Environmental scientists
What they do:
“Conduct research or investigations to protect the environment or human health”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To interpret environmental datasets, such as temperature records, water-quality metrics, and air-pollution indices, to understand ecosystem changes
- To extract and evaluate data from natural systems, including tree-ring samples, ice cores, and long-term ecological monitoring
- To collect data through field sensors, telecommunications systems, online research platforms, and environmental databases
- To use statistical and computational tools to detect trends, assess environmental risks, and guide conservation or regulatory decisions
Psychologists
What they do:
“Study cognitive, emotional, and social processes and behavior by observing, interpreting, and recording how people relate to one another and to their environments”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To analyze largescale behavioral and cognitive data that supports evidencebased understanding of human behavior
- To track mentalhealth trends across populations and time periods to inform prevention and intervention strategies
- To use predictive analytics to detect early signs of psychological disorders and identify individuals who may be at risk
- To develop personalized treatment plans grounded in patient data, clinical outcomes, and behavioral patterns
- To incorporate data from brainimaging studies and patternrecognition tools that deepen insight into cognitive processes
- To examine digital behavior, including socialmedia activity, to understand emerging patterns in mental health and well being
Urban and regional planners
What they do:
“Develop comprehensive plans and programs for use of land and physical facilities in cities, counties, metropolitan areas, and other jurisdictions”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To manage traffic systems by analyzing transportation data that reveals congestion patterns and mobility needs
- To monitor environmental conditions and assess the impact of pollution, climate change, and landuse decisions
- To allocate resources effectively using data to identify community needs and infrastructure gaps
- To model urban growth and forecast how populations, housing, and land use will evolve over time
- To support crimeprevention strategies by analyzing spatial and temporal crime data
- To monitor publichealth trends and plan healthcare infrastructure based on populationlevel data
- To evaluate housing markets and realestate trends that shape zoning decisions and development planning
Zoologists and wildlife biologists
What they do:
“Study animals, those both in captivity and in the wild, and how they interact with their ecosystems”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To conduct field research by collecting observational data, tracking animal movements, and using tools such as camera traps and GPS devices
- To analyze wildlife data with statistical methods that reveal population trends, habitat use, and ecological relationships
- To inform conservation strategies and management decisions by interpreting longterm datasets on species health and environmental pressures
Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers
What they do:
“Plan programs to generate interest in products or services”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To create profiles based on demographics, location, and interests to tailor ad campaigns to specific audiences
- To monitor user activity across websites using third-party data
- To analyze past purchasing behavior and preferences to deliver personalized ads
- To predict future purchasing behavior and optimize ad campaigns in real time
Emergency management directors
What they do:
“Prepare plans and procedures for responding to natural disasters or other emergencies” “Help lead the response during and after emergencies”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To identify vulnerable populations, critical infrastructure, and high-risk areas using historical, demographic, and socioeconomic data
- To predict potential impact through modeling and simulations for better preparedness
- To determine where supplies will be needed
- To monitor events as they unfold and communicate with affected areas
- To map damages for insurance, aid, and rebuilding efforts
- To ensure recovery aid is distributed equitably
Fundraising managers
What they do:
“Coordinate campaigns that bring in donations for their organization”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To create targeted campaigns based on donors’ giving history, frequency, and engagement
- To identify prospective donors and determine optimal ask amounts
- To review metrics like donor retention, cost-benefit, and campaign effectiveness
- To maintain accurate records for efficient communication
Sales managers
What they do:
“Plan, direct, or coordinate the delivery of a product or service to the customer”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To track conversion rates and deal stages to fix issues
- To pinpoint employee skill gaps and create coaching plans
- To predict future revenue using historical data
- To refine customer profiles using demographic and behavioral data
- To identify top-performing products, regions, or channels and reallocate resources to growth areas
Top executives
What they do:
“Plan strategies and policies to ensure that an organization meets its goals”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To validate assumptions, predict future trends, and guide long-term strategy
- To help reduce inefficiencies and enhance customer satisfaction
- To monitor performance in real time and quickly pivot strategies
- To segment consumers to identify market niches
- To identify potential threats, evaluate portfolio risk, and maintain business continuity
News analysts, reporters, and journalists
What they do:
“Keep the public updated about current events and noteworthy information”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To find patterns by analyzing large datasets such as government records or financial reports
- To cross-reference information to support investigative stories
- To convert data into easy-to-understand visuals such charts, maps, and infographics
- To contextualize news events and explain the broader picture
Public relations specialists
What they do:
“Create and maintain a positive public image for the clients they represent”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To identify specific audiences for tailoring content to increase engagement
- To analyze social media and news coverage to measure audience sentiment in real time
- To connect news coverage and business outcomes
- To anticipate future trends by analyzing past trends
- To compare performance against competitors
Writers and authors
What they do:
“Develop written content for various types of media”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To provide evidence that strengthens arguments and builds credibility
- To track productivity and maintain consistent output
- To analyze trends using, for example, keyword tools or reader behavior analytics to tailor future work
- To monitor sales across different formats and measure reader engagement through, for example, social media analytics
Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists
What they do:
“Provide haircutting, hairstyling, and other services related to personal appearance”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To identify high-performing products and services to adjust staff, hours of operation, and inventory as needed
- To store client data for personalized marketing
- To maintain records of client color formulas, application techniques, and product usage to ensure consistency
- To facilitate appointment booking, reminders, and other operations efficiently
Fitness trainers and instructors
What they do:
“Lead, instruct, and motivate individuals or groups in exercise activities”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To track performance and recovery scores to adjust training programs as needed
- To monitor heart rate during sessions through wearable technology
- To track client consistency with assigned workouts and nutrition goals
- To personalize client exercise programs to maximize progress
- To optimize gym operations through attendance logs and retention data
Firefighters
What they do:
“Control and put out fires and respond to emergencies involving life, property, or the environment”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To gain insights into fire patterns and community risk factors by analyzing incident data and historical trends
- To improve resource allocation by using data to determine staffing needs, equipment placement, and response strategies
- To identify training needs for current and prospective firefighters based on performance metrics and operational outcomes
Police and detectives
What they do:
“Protect lives and property” “Gather facts and collect evidence of possible crimes”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To strengthen response planning by examining patterns between decisions, outcomes, and situational variables
- To improve response speed through analysis of call‑volume data, geographic patterns, and deployment efficiency
- To support crime‑prevention efforts by identifying trends in offenses, locations, and times of heightened risk
- To aid criminal identification by using data from investigative records, digital evidence, and forensic analyses
Athletes and sports competitors
What they do:
“Participate in organized, officiated sporting events to entertain spectators”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To track progress and refine performance by analyzing training data, competition results, and biometric indicators
- To design training programs that reduce injury risk by monitoring workload, movement patterns, and recovery metrics
Coaches and scouts
What they do:
“Teach amateur or professional athletes the skills they need to succeed at their sport” “Evaluate athletes as possible recruits”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To recruit talent by evaluating performance data, scouting reports, and predictive indicators of future potential
- To guide player training and development through continuous analysis of skill metrics, game footage, and physical data
- To optimize performance using insights from wearable technology, motion tracking, and real-time analytics
- To enhance fan engagement by leveraging data on audience behavior, preferences, and interaction patterns
Air traffic controllers
What they do:
“Coordinate the movement of aircraft to maintain safe distances between them”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To monitor aircraft positions, altitudes, and speeds for safety
- To manage flight plans using data on flight paths, departure times, and destination information
- To manage congestion through tools like ground stops, speed adjustments, and calculating optimal routes
- To reroute aircraft around storms or hazardous conditions using weather data
- To digitize and streamline communication with pilots
Airline and commercial pilots
What they do:
“Fly and navigate airplanes, helicopters, and other aircraft”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To automate navigation, manage fuel, and calculate takeoff and landing performance through flight management systems
- To monitor flights in real time using navigation and weather applications
- To digitize and streamline communications with air-traffic controllers
- To avoid delays using data to optimize routes, calculate fuel, and monitor airspace conditions
Delivery truck drivers
What they do:
“Pick up, transport, and drop off packages and small shipments within a local region or urban area”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To optimize navigation using GPS, traffic, and weather data to determine best routes
- To monitor driver behavior to improve safety
- To predict truck maintenance needs
- To communicate with dispatchers and provide real-time updates for customers
- To manage inventory through digital documentation (ex. barcodes, photos, proof of delivery)
Flight attendants
What they do:
“Provide routine services and respond to emergencies to ensure the safety and comfort of airline passengers”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To access customer profiles for personalized service
- To manage in-flight operations such as meal orders, payments, amenities, seating, and upgrades
- To report safety incidents, access digital manuals, and monitor cabin systems
- To manage boarding and update the crew and passengers about connecting gate information
Taxi drivers and chauffeurs
What they do:
“Transport people to and from the places they need to go”*How do they use data in their work?*
- To select the fastest and most cost-effective routes using GPS data
- To predict rider demand
- To monitor driver behavior to improve safety
- To monitor vehicle maintenance needs
- To quickly match passengers and drivers using location data