Data science and machine learning program helps spur on Digital Transformation Strategy

A 10-week training program for data science and machine learning has been lauded as another step forward in Aramco’s Digital Transformation drive.

Some 40 data scientists are attending seven modules covering topics such as machine learning model development, data analysis, model deployment, and practical approaches to data science projects.

The course has been designed and created by Aramco’s Digital Transformation Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategic partner, Crayon.

Its objective is to expand online data science training while combining real-life practical scenarios.

In the first delivery of the program, students are taking part in a series of lectures, practical exercises, and coaching from experienced data scientists.

Digital transformation

Welcoming the Aramco students to the program, chief digital officer Nabil A. Al Nuaim said that it directly supported the company’s ambitious Digital Transformation Vision.

“One of the main goals of the Digital Transformation is to accelerate digital talent development, and we have been active in this by availing of relevant hosted programs, e-Learning, and programs like this one,” Al Nuaim said.

“Machine learning has been identified as one of the most sought-after skills in the coming decades and by undertaking this training, I am sure you are not only benefiting Aramco’s Digital Transformation journey, but also enhancing your career prospects.”

It was in 2018 that Aramco’s Digital Transformation Strategy was endorsed by the company’s Strategic Counsel.

This included the setting up of an ambitious Digital Transformation Program with a vision to position Aramco as the world’s leading digitalized energy company, thereby maximizing shareholder value and spearheading digital innovation in the industry globally.

Bridging competency gaps

Fahad Dossary, head of the Technical Services Professional Academy, said that a continuous reevaluation of the company’s skills inventory would help identify competency gaps. 

“Success will be measured in terms of how adaptable we are to changes in the business environment,” he said, “and how quickly we reskill, upskill, and deploy employees throughout the company. 

Developing capacity 

Abeer M. Almutlaq, Training and Development consultant with Digital Transformation’s AI & Analytics (DT AI&A), has been pivotal in the program’s delivery.

“The training is part of a long-term plan to develop a strong data science capacity at Aramco. The plan is to have this training as an integral element of the future data science career development plans at Aramco,” she said.

What the students think

Reham A. Yousef, engineer: “Throughout the past 10 months, I have been dedicating time to diving into AI, and I was lucky that my home department, DT AI&A, has partnered with Crayon and launched this three-month intensive AI training. 

“The training is not only educating us on AI technical concepts that can be found in any course, but it is also exposing us to valuable experiences, insights, and methods for managing AI and machine learning projects. 

Mosaad A. Thokair, IT systems analyst: “Managing Machine Learning Projects has given me a bird’s-eye view of machine learning projects’ life cycle from inception to deployment and operation, while focusing on giving a hands-on experience. 

“This broad yet practical knowledge will elevate my engagement with corporate Admin Areas as part of my role in the IT Customer Relations Department. We partner with Admin Areas to identify solutions targeted to their strategic initiatives, especially with the growing role of machine learning in today’s technology landscape.”