Sian Lewis is a data scientist specializing in deep learning, natural language processing, predictive analytics, and social good initiatives. Sian’s passion for data science inspired her to join Women in Data Science (WiDS)—an organization that aims to inspire and educate data scientists worldwide and support women in the field. Within WiDS she serves as chair of the organization’s community service branch , connecting data science capabilities to social impact initiatives. Sian is also a member of GLOBE (Booz Allen’s LGBTQIA forum) and the African American Forum.
How is your work making an impact?
I’m doing a big thing with my client: Converting health records to digital format for active duty military. Coordinated records means better healthcare for our military. Solving big challenges like this is what gets me out of bed every morning.
How do you feel personally connected to this work?
Algorithms help determine a lot of important aspects of our lives, such as job eligibility and access to loans and funding. Because of this, it’s important that people of all backgrounds have a role in making data-driven decisions. Creating and participating in the Hackathon for Hiring had a strong impact on me. Booz Allen is actively looking at ways to close the gender gap, and that’s really important.
For whom are you building the future?
When I was growing up, I was always “the only—" the only girl in Advanced Placement Math in high school. The only woman in the room. The only black person. The only out queer person. I’m building a future for people who feel like they’re the only so that they no longer have to be.
I’m changing the world by…
Taking care of myself first.
