Interview with Sai Srikanth Gorthy, Chartered Data Scientist – A Data Science Visionary

The Chartered Data Scientist™ (CDS) credential, awarded by the Association of Data Scientists (ADaSci), represents the highest standard of excellence in the data science field. This globally recognized designation is achieved by passing a rigorous examination that evaluates advanced analytical skills and practical knowledge.

Sai Srikanth Gorthy, a Senior Data Scientist at TikTok, recently joined the ranks of CDS charter holders. With over 11 years of experience, Sai shares his journey, challenges, and the significance of attaining the prestigious CDS designation.

Que: Could you tell us about your professional and educational background?
Sai: I have over 11 years of experience in Machine Learning and Data Science, with a focus on delivering impactful solutions and driving strategic product decisions. My career includes leadership roles at companies like TikTok, AMD, and Google, where I’ve enhanced key metrics and streamlined processes using advanced AI technologies.

I hold a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence from Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Engineering from BITS-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus. My diverse expertise, spanning deep learning and natural language processing, has equipped me to solve complex challenges and foster innovation in data science.

Que: How did your career begin in the data science field? What are your major achievements, and where do you find yourself in your career?
Sai: My journey in data science began at LatentView Analytics, where I developed predictive model solutions for various industries. Notable achievements include building an in-house ML team at Google and deploying a multi-model AI system at AMD.

Currently, I lead data science efforts at TikTok for Trust & Safety, leveraging data-driven storytelling to address complex challenges. My professional and entrepreneurial experiences have honed my ability to align data strategies with product goals and organizational vision.

Que: What were the initial challenges you faced in the field? How did you overcome them?
Sai: A decade ago, resources for breaking into data science were scarce. While my engineering education at BITS equipped me with the aptitude, I relied on platforms like Coursera, Khan Academy, and edX for practical knowledge. Guidance from seniors and hands-on side projects helped me gradually build my skills and confidence.

Que: How did you come to know about the CDS™ examination? What motivated you to take the CDS?
Sai: A friend introduced me to the CDS™ by ADaSci. After reviewing the curriculum, I found it both challenging and achievable. The exam’s breadth and depth presented an excellent opportunity to validate my skills and benchmark my expertise against industry standards.

Que: How did you prepare for the exam? How many hours did you dedicate each day to mastering the domain? How long did it take to prepare?
Sai: Over a couple of months, I dedicated 2-3 hours weekly to preparation. My approach involved studying the syllabus, exploring online articles, and reviewing excerpts from recommended textbooks. I also took the practice exam to familiarize myself with the format and gauge my readiness.

Que: What books and resources did you follow during your preparation?
Sai: I primarily used online platforms like Medium.com and Wikipedia, supplemented by excerpts from textbooks listed in the reading materials.

Que: What was your strategy for cracking the exam? How did you manage your time during the exam?
Sai: Effective time management was key. I aimed to answer 25 questions within the first 30 minutes and revisited unanswered or challenging questions at the end. This strategy ensured I completed the exam without leaving any questions unanswered.

Que: How has your experience been after becoming a Chartered Data Scientist™? How do you think CDS™ will impact your professional journey?
Sai: Achieving the CDS designation is a significant milestone. It has solidified my expertise and garnered recognition within my network. The credential not only enhances my credibility but also opens doors to advanced and specialized opportunities in data science.

Que: How was your overall CDS™ program experience? What advice would you give to the data science community about the CDS™ program and the field in general?
Sai: My CDS™ experience was extremely positive. The exam is well-structured, diving deep into advanced concepts and practical applications. For the data science community, I strongly recommend the CDS program. It validates your expertise, enhances your skill set, and boosts your career prospects

Data science is a dynamic field with immense potential for growth and innovation. The CDS credential adds significant value by demonstrating your commitment to excellence and making you stand out in a competitive job market.

ADaSci congratulates Sai Srikanth Gorthy on this remarkable achievement and wishes him continued success in his career.