MLDS Minor Hosts Industry Fireside Chat on Data Leadership, Success in Careers, and AI Ethics

On May 14, the Machine Learning and Data Science (MLDS) minor hosted an industry fireside conversation. Speakers Gigi Yuen and Michael Freilich discussed data careers, strategic directions in AI technology, organizational culture, and other topics. 

“Conversation with industry leaders like Gigi and Michael is especially valuable amid advances and shifts in the technological fields,” said Moses Chan, codirector of the MLDS minor and assistant professor of instruction in industrial engineering and management sciences at Northwestern Engineering. “Some skills, such as critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and the willingness to try, fail, and try again, continue to support a data-oriented career.”

Launched by IEMS and Department of Computer Science in fall 2021, the MLDS minor offers three specialization tracks: machine learning, data science, and a hybrid option. The speakers at the event reflected potential career outcomes of those paths.

Yuen (PhD ’06, ’01) serves as chief data and AI officer at Cohere Health, where she oversees clinical analytics, machine learning, data science, AI, and data governance functions. Before joining the company, she built Availity’s first AI and analytics organization. Earlier in her career at IBM, she was named a Distinguished Engineer. Freilich is a cofounder and CTO of Ricono Inc., a startup developing accounting software for independent insurance agencies. He previously held several executive positions at Renaissance Alliance across production, technology, and marketing.

“The students brought a fearlessness I really appreciated. They were thoughtful and introspective, yet clearly grounded in their own ability to make a difference. They asked sharp questions about AI, leadership, culture, and how to weigh the risks of building or joining a startup,” Freilich said. “On a personal note, they challenged me to reflect on my own career path—the calculated risks I took, the great mentors who helped me along the way, and the role a little luck played, too.”

Together, the two discussed data governance, organizational culture and leadership, current trends in the job market, and ethical responsibility of engineers. Students at the event also had valuable takeaways.

“There is always time to pivot,” said Kennedi Wilson, a second-year computer science student. “Don't feel trapped in one place. Have the confidence to make the leap towards what interests and challenges you.”

Aden Benson, a fourth-year IEMS student, said his biggest takeaway was the “importance of culture and values in organizations, and how these must match your values in order for you to be satisfied with your job.”

“It was great hearing the career journeys of both these speakers and recognizing how and why they made switches when they did,” Benson said.

Dong Joo Kwon, a computer science student in the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, appreciated hearing insight into the industry’s leadership and work culture.

“Hearing from both speakers and seeing how unique, different their life journeys were to get to where they are now, was comforting,” Kwon said. “I appreciated their thoughts on how to lead teams and how to cultivate a productive and ethical workplace.”

The event concluded with a small performance by Chan (violin) and Freilich (cello), playing “Lullaby” by Rebecca Clarke.  While both are professionally trained in engineering, the classical music training has continued to be integral in their day-to-day life.  

The MLDS minor is now accepting applications for the 2026-27 cycle, and all are welcome to apply. More details are available at: https://www.mccormick.northwestern.edu/machine-learning-data-science-minor/admissions/