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Data Engineer Skills: Insights from Lavanya’s Journey at Aays

Writer's picture: Team AaysTeam Aays

Updated: Jan 26


Insights on Data Engineer Skills

Hands-on learning is invaluable. Data engineer skills are honed through real-world problem-solving, and embracing every opportunity is key to growth - Lavanya Karhadkar

In this interview, Lavanya, Senior Data Engineer at Aays, shares his journey from data analyst to mastering key data engineer skills. He talks about the challenges, the impact of AI, and what it takes to succeed in the field. If you are looking to grow your career in data engineering, Lavanya’s insights are a must-read!



What sparked your interest in data engineering, and how has your journey influenced your approach to problem-solving?

Lavanya: I started in Aays as a data analyst, but having decent knowledge of SQL and Python helped me transition into data engineering. Developing data engineer skills was a natural progression after working as a data analyst since I understood the form in which data is required for analysis—what fields need to be created in the backend and which ones in the frontend. Problem-solving is something that has kept me in this field. Each project I’ve worked on has presented unique challenges, whether it’s dealing with complex logic, technical limitations, insufficient business logic, or integration with new systems.


 

What drew you to Aays, and what do you find most exciting about being part of the team here?

Lavanya: I joined Aays in its early days. What has kept me here is the open work environment, the freedom to express my views, opportunities to work with the latest technologies, and the chance to tackle new business challenges in every project across various verticals.


 

Can you describe a typical day as a Senior Data Engineer at Aays? What’s the part of your role you enjoy the most?

Lavanya: A typical day as a Senior Data Engineer at Aays involves meetings with clients, estimating project timelines, conducting interviews, designing and building scalable data pipelines, and, most importantly, solving problems. Tackling new challenges is what I enjoy the most.

 

How do you approach working with cross-functional teams, such as architects, analysts, and business stakeholders?

Lavanya: Working with cross-functional teams is a critical part of any large-scale organization. Interacting with other subject matter experts enhances my learning, as everyone brings unique insights from their experiences. This collaboration is essential for overall growth and helps me develop a T-shaped skillset.

 

 

What’s your philosophy on mentoring your team members?

Lavanya: I believe mentoring isn’t about providing my team members with solutions but guiding them in the right direction to find the answers themselves. Hands-on learning is invaluable, and everyone must experience it to grow in their career. As the saying goes, "Teach a man to fish, and you’ll feed him for a lifetime” – this is what I believe in.



What data engineer skills would you recommend someone focus on when starting their career in data engineering?

Lavanya: Hands-on! Hands-on! Hands-on! I have seen people who are very good technically but struggle when exposed to real-world problems. So, my advice: Embrace every opportunity that comes your way.



What aspects of Aays' culture have had the biggest impact on your growth and work experience?

Lavanya: I believe the biggest advantage at Aays for strong career growth is that nobody is strictly ‘tagged’ to their roles. This allows everyone to pursue what they excel at, even if they discover it later in their career.



What activities help you recharge outside of work, and how do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

Lavanya: I mostly recharge by going on long bike rides. It gives me time to reflect and prepare myself for upcoming challenges.



What excites you the most about the future of data engineering and AI?

Lavanya: I think the coming years are going to be very tumultuous as AI starts getting into the workflows in most of the job roles. Tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Co-Pilot are already making it easier for the next generation of data engineers to write code and access the resources they need. A lot is happening in this space and we will have to be on top of it to be on the right side of technology as it is going to change job descriptions in the near future.

  

 

What’s a fun or unexpected fact about you that your colleagues at Aays might not already know?

Lavanya: Anyone who knows me at Aays knows most of the facts about me :D



 

About Lavanya Karhadkar


Lavanya is a Senior Data Engineer at Aays with expertise in data engineering, analytics, and Azure technologies. Passionate about continuous learning and problem-solving, he delivers impactful solutions and mentors his team members to grow in their careers.


 


Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Senior Data Engineer do at Aays? 

A Senior Data Engineer at Aays is responsible for designing and building scalable data pipelines, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and solving complex data-related challenges. The role involves a combination of technical expertise, client interaction, and continuous problem-solving.

What skills are important for a successful career in data engineering? 

How can I get started in data engineering? 

What makes Aays a great place to work? 




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