What is your role at ILLUME?
I lead the data science team at ILLUME, where we conduct a variety of research to help utilities better serve their customers. We may conduct research to better understand the impacts from energy efficiency measures or DER initiatives, or to understand customers’ responses to certain messaging.
Where are you from and where do you live now?
I grew up in New Jersey, (15 miles out of Manhattan) and have moved West since. I spent time in Burlington, VT and Boulder, CO and now live in northern Idaho (Moscow), which is home to the University of Idaho.
Who or what inspires you in your work?
Our climate is changing, our population is growing, and the resources we rely on are limited. The world around us is changing and a few right decisions can turn the challenges of change into a positive. As a data scientist, I’d like to do my best to use data to help us make the right decisions.
Do you have any pets?
One amazing pup named Holly.
What are your favorite hobbies?
I love to get out in the snow, whether it’s cross country skiing or downhill skiing.
What’s your favorite quote or motto?
“Not everything that counts can be counted, and not everything that can be counted counts.” The origin of this quote is debated, and it is often attributed to Albert Einstein. This quote is important to me, because it highlights the need for data to be used intelligently and appropriately – decision makers should use data to inform their decisions, not
let it make their decisions for them. For example, utilities’ customers are more than a number. Our data science team regularly conducts in-depth analyses, but our strength is in helping our clients interpret those results so that they can reach the best outcome.
What’s the worst job you’ve ever had?
Working the late shift at a Dunkin’ Donuts/Baskin Robbins. Cleaning up after a full day takes time and customers always knew to come in two minutes before closing.
What is the best concert you ever attended?
Jason Isbell at the Ogden in Denver. Jason Isbell is an incredible songwriter and was able to capture the full attention of the entire theater for the whole show – it was great.
What is your superpower?
Keeping calm in a chaotic situation.
If you could have chosen another career path, what would you be doing?
I conducted ecological research as an undergraduate and loved the field work! I’d love to be taking environmental measurements as a part of ecological research. Maybe, Department of Transportation planning, electric dam management, or as a part of land management.
