Description:

In this conversation, Brad Cronkrite shares his journey from a developer to a lead data analytics engineer at Mercury Insurance. He discusses the critical role of data in the insurance industry, the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, and the importance of mentorship and self-awareness in career growth.

Brad also emphasizes the significance of maintaining a work-life balance and understanding the dynamics of introversion in the workplace. He shares insights on empowering analytics teams through dbt mesh and reflects on past data disasters that shaped his approach to data engineering.

 

Takeaways:

• Brad's journey in data began as a developer on a mainframe.
• Data is foundational in the insurance industry, influencing pricing and risk assessment.
• Empowering analytics teams with dbt mesh allows for greater flexibility and ownership.
• Finding your niche in data can lead to greater job satisfaction.
• Day-to-day work in data engineering involves project management and troubleshooting.
• AI can enhance workflows but must be used responsibly in decision-making.
• Data disasters can lead to valuable learning experiences and improved processes.
• Interviewing for data roles often reveals knowledge gaps that need addressing.
• Understanding introversion can improve team dynamics and productivity. Measuring success in data work involves visibility and trust from leadership.

 

Chapters:

• 00:00 Brad's Journey into Data
• 02:44 Navigating Imposter Syndrome
• 05:38 Data's Role in the Insurance Industry
• 08:22 Empowering Analytics Teams with dbt Mesh
• 10:58 Finding Your Niche in Data Engineering
• 13:27 The Structure of Brad's Data Team
• 16:10 Building a Robust CI/CD Pipeline
• 19:07 The Role of AI in Data Engineering
• 21:44 Navigating Data Disasters
• 24:15 Interview Insights and Challenges
• 26:53 Understanding Introversion in the Workplace
• 32:22 Proud Projects and Their Impact
• 36:03 Mentorship and Career Growth
• 37:14 Advice for Aspiring Data Professionals

Speakers:

• Guest: Brad Cronkrite, Lead Data Analytics Engineer, Mercury Insurance
• Host: Bolaji Oyejide, Community Manager at dbt Labs

 

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