The Gen AI Shift: Data Engineering Redefined, with Shashi Kumar (Head of Data Engineering & Analytics at Hearst)

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In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, host Ben Parker talks with Shashi Kumar, Head of Data Engineering & Analytics at Hearst, to explore how the rise of generative AI is reshaping the role of data engineering.

Whether you’re an aspiring data leader or a hands-on engineer, this episode is packed with practical insights, career advice, and how top organisations adapt to the new AI landscape.

You’ll learn:

How Shashi transitioned from DBA to senior data leader and what helped him stand outThe key skills, tools, and certifications that are shaping the modern data engineerHow generative AI is changing data architecture, pipeline design, and collaborationWhy governance, unstructured data, and real-time pipelines are now mission-criticalWhat strategic investments should companies make to scale Gen AI effectively

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:41 Shashi Kumar's Career Journey

03:42 Transition to Leadership

05:44 Key Career Moments

08:57 Facing Career Setbacks

11:31 Skills for Success in Data Engineering

16:50 Impact of Generative AI on Data Engineering

20:52 Modern Data Engineering Tools and Skills

24:21 Collaboration Between Data Engineering and Data Science

28:42 Modern Data Architectures and Gen AI

33:57 Strategic Investments for Gen AI Adoption

34:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Thank you for listening!

Welcome to Data Analytics Chat – the podcast that dives deep into the ever-evolving world of Data and AI.

Each episode unpacks the latest trends, innovations, and challenges shaping data science and artificial intelligence today. But this isn’t just about tech, it’s about the people behind it.

We spotlight real career journeys from professionals across the industry, sharing the pivotal moments, obstacles overcome, and lessons learned along the way.

Tune in for candid conversations with leading experts as they offer practical advice, industry insights, and inspiration to help you grow your own career in data.

Connect with host - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben---parker/

 

• No. of episodes: 44
• Latest episode: 2025-06-25
• Technology

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