NJ Pathways Alumni Spotlight: Lucas’ Journey from CCM to a Promising Career in Data Science

County College of Morris 

Lucas Spitzer’s academic and professional journey has been nothing short of transformative, and his success story exemplifies the power of education and hands-on experience in shaping a student’s future. Through his participation in County College of Morris (CCM)’s newly established Computer and Data Science programs, Lucas gained invaluable skills that have set a strong foundation for his career aspirations. 

At CCM, Lucas immersed himself in a comprehensive curriculum that included a wide array of programming languages such as Python, R, and Java. He also worked with advanced tools and libraries like Tableau and Matplotlib, equipping him with the technical expertise needed for a career in data science. His academic achievements were put to the test in competitive environments, and in Spring 2024, Lucas and his team earned first place in the Two-Year College Category at the American Statistical Association (ASA) DataFest competition. They were also recognized with the Best Statistical Analysis award, highlighting their exceptional skills in data analysis. 

Lucas’ experience at CCM wasn’t just academic. His program of study opened doors to high-profile internships, where he gained real-world experience that further developed his expertise. As a Digital Product Analyst intern at Boost Insurance and as a Software Development intern at Cranium AI, Lucas was able to apply the skills he learned in the classroom to solve practical problems in the tech industry. 

Lucas credits his professors and advisors at CCM for igniting his passion for data science and providing the mentorship and guidance that helped shape his educational path. Their support has given him the confidence to pursue a career in this exciting field, with a focus on using data science to solve real-world problems. 

Looking ahead, Lucas plans to continue his education at Ramapo College, where he will pursue a bachelor’s degree in data science. He is confident that the solid foundation he built at CCM will support his academic and career aspirations, helping him make meaningful contributions to the data science field. 

Lucas’ journey is a testament to the value of workforce development programs like those offered through the NJ Pathways to Career Opportunities’ Centers of Workforce Innovation. His success underscores the importance of combining rigorous academic training with real-world experience, preparing students for a bright future in data science and beyond.