UND launches “Data Skills Pathway”

(UND photo)

(UND) – The University of North Dakota is expanding workforce-ready training through a new Data Skills Pathway program aimed at helping undergraduates build practical skills for data-driven careers.

The short-term, structured program teaches students how to turn real-world data into real-world decisions. Based in UND’s Department of Atmospheric Sciences, the pathway is open to students from across the university. It focuses on data analysis, visualization, programming and communication, with the goal of connecting participants to paid research experiences and internships aligned with high-demand careers.

The Data Skills Pathway began Jan. 1 after receiving a nearly $1.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education through its Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education–Special Projects (FIPSE–SP) program. The project is designed to test a training model that can be sustained and expanded.

The program is led by David Delene, Atmospheric Sciences research professor, and Marwa Majdi, Atmospheric Sciences research assistant professor. The team also includes Mounir Chrit, Atmospheric Sciences research assistant professor; Daile Zhang, Atmospheric Sciences assistant professor; and Shawn Wagner, Atmospheric Sciences research scientist, who will help evaluate and strengthen the program while mentoring students.