e-Portfolio

  Google’s Use of Nuclear Energy for AI Data Centers   Nicolas Pedraza LIS4934 Prof. Alicia K. Long 10/17/2024       In the face of growing energy consumption driven by artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, Google has recently signed a deal with Kairos Power to utilize small nuclear reactors to power its AI data centers. This move signifies a critical intersection of information technology, energy policy, and environmental sustainability. The agreement is set to launch the first reactor this decade, marking a significant shift towards nuclear energy as a solution for meeting the power needs of large-scale data operations. The decision also highlights broader challenges within the tech industry, which is seeking to decarbonize its operations while handling the massive energy demands of emerging technologies like AI. This essay will explore the core issues raised by this event, including the potential policy implications, stakeholders involv...

  Artificial Intelligence and Ethical Challenges: Analysis   Nicolas Pedraza LIS4934 Prof. Alicia K. Long 10/13/2024             Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized various sectors, including education, healthcare, finance, and industry, bringing significant advancements and efficiencies. AI encompasses machine learning, natural language processing, and generative models, like OpenAI’s ChatGPT. These AI systems are designed to automate processes, analyze vast amounts of data, and make decisions or predictions. Despite the benefits, AI poses several ethical challenges for society, ranging from bias and fairness issues to data privacy and intellectual property questions. This analysis focuses on two key ethical challenges bias in AI systems and privacy concerns while exploring the broader implications of AI in society and education. In this case study, I will discuss these ethical challenges, using critical thin...

  Event Report:   Insights into the skills and impact of data scientists Event Titles: 1.      "The most important skills of data scientists" by Jose Miguel Cansado 2.      "Big data is better data" by Kenneth Cukier Date Attended: October 11, 2024 In the age of big data, the role of a data scientist has become increasingly central to numerous fields, including business, healthcare, and technology. In two recent TED Talks, "The most important skills of data scientists" by Jose Miguel Cansado and "Big data is better data" by Kenneth Cukier, I gained valuable insights into both the practical skills required to thrive in this profession and the broader implications of how data can shape the future. These talks provided a complementary view of the hard and soft skills needed to excel in data science, as well as the ethical and societal challenges posed by the expanding influence of big data. This report reflects on the key takeaway...

  Nicolas Pedraza Location: Tampa, Florida Hello, my name is Nicolas Pedraza, and I am an aspiring information professional specializing in data science and analytics. I am currently based in Tampa, Florida, and pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Information Science (BSIS). My passion lies in leveraging data to create meaningful insights that can help businesses make better decisions and improve processes. Being bilingual in English and Spanish, I am eager to apply my skills in diverse environments, bringing a unique perspective to every project I undertake. Areas of Interest My primary areas of interest include data analysis, predictive analytics, and data visualization. I enjoy working with large datasets to uncover patterns and trends that can drive strategic business decisions. Predictive analytics is especially exciting to me because it enables organizations to anticipate future outcomes and stay ahead of the competition. In addition to data analysis, I am interested in the im...

  In this project, I am tasked with creating an implementation plan for developing a software-tracking database for a college or university. The database will serve the institution’s IT department, ensuring that all software, licenses, versions, installation dates, and department usage are tracked and easily accessible. This plan follows the six key steps of project management as outlined in the Project Management Handbook. The following sections detail how each step will be applied to ensure the successful completion of the project. Step 1: Define the Project Scope The first step in the project management process is to define the scope. This includes identifying what the database will track, who the stakeholders are, and the boundaries of the project. In this case, the scope will involve creating a database that records and tracks: -           Types of software used across campus -        ...

  I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Information Science (BSIS) with a concentration in Data Science and Analytics. This major aligns closely with my career aspirations, as I envision a future in the fields of data analysis and predictive analytics. My ultimate goal is to work in environments where I can leverage the power of data to solve complex problems and drive innovation, particularly within the energy and technology sectors. I originally began my academic journey as a mechanical engineering student and had set goals aligned with that field. However, after realizing my passion for data and the growing influence of data-driven decision-making in today’s world, I made the switch to information science. While the change felt uncertain at first, I quickly discovered that my analytical and problem-solving skills would translate well into this new domain. The ability to impact real-world outcomes through careful data analysis and strategy excites me the most about thi...