Datapalooza 2026: The Future of Work, Powered by Data and People

DATAPALOOZA 2026

THE FUTURE OF WORK, POWERED BY DATA AND PEOPLE

Program Overview

Agenda

• 8:45 a.m. — Registration/Check-In Begins
• 9:30-10:30 a.m. — MSDS Online Breakfast
• 10:30-11:00 a.m. — Building Tours
• 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. — Mixer for Residential & Online Students
• 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. — Headshots
• 12:00-1:00p.m. — Networking Lunch
• 1:10-1:15 p.m. — Kickoff
• 1:15-2:15 p.m. — Fireside Chat Discussion Panel
• 2:15-2:30 p.m. — Break
• 2:30-3:30 p.m. — Breakout Sessions
• 3:30-3:45 p.m. — Break
• 3:45-4:30 p.m. — Keynote
• 4:30-4:45 p.m. — Break
• 4:45-5:45 p.m. — Reception

Fireside Chat Discussion Panel

The Future of Work, Powered by Data and People

Session Summary
We’ll kick off the day with a guided conversation with industry leaders which inspires and explores how Data Science and AI are fundamentally changing how we make decisions and how we work. The conversation will explore the evolving role of data science across industry and society. Panelists will consider the reality that the future of work cannot be shaped by technology alone but must be driven by the choices that people make about how technology is developed and put to use.

Breakout Sessions

Breakout 1 | How Do You Become a Data Science Leader?

Session Summary

What does leadership look like in the age of AI? How can leaders harness data and emerging technologies that support teams in making decisions, setting priorities, and driving business. How are leaders thinking about data, AI, and helping to define the human-technology relationship?

Breakout 2 | What Do You Really Want to Know About Working in Data Science?

Session Summary
This is your chance to challenge data science academic and industry leaders to give candid answers and real-world perspectives about what’s happening in the field—as well as their personal journey to and through data science. They will be put in the “hot seat” by our very own students. How did they get here? What trends, tools, challenges, and opportunities are emerging now and in the future? How is industry/higher education thinking about and addressing AI ethics and safety concerns? And where will people be in all of this? Come curious and ready to engage.

Breakout 3 | How Can a Data Scientist Create and Innovate?

Session Summary
Explore how innovators are using data and AI not simply to analyze what already exists, but to create new possibilities. What emerging tools, ideas and experiences are unfolding, and how might you create and innovate as a student, community member, alumni or industry partner?

Keynote

Close out Datapalooza with an inspiring keynote on how thoughtful policy and responsible data practices can help communities thrive.

Reception

Postdoc Research Showcase During Reception