Josh Janzen
Data Scientist & Lead Instructor
Transforming Business Through GenAI & Data Science Innovation
About Me
As a technical Data Science leader with significant business background, I specialize in transforming business vision into measurable outcomes through AI and analytics initiatives.
With NextGen Executive, I'm leveraging my expertise to help business leaders become tech-fluent and future-ready. I believe that in today's AI-driven world, executives who understand coding fundamentals have a distinct competitive advantage. My coaching approach combines technical knowledge with business acumen, making coding accessible and relevant for busy professionals.
My teaching philosophy centers on practical, hands-on learning with real-world applications. Rather than abstract theory, we focus on building useful tools that can immediately benefit your business operations. With the help of modern AI tools like ChatGPT, the learning curve for coding has never been gentler—it's the perfect time for executives to acquire these skills.
Featured Projects
AI Roster Optimization
Python, FastAPI, Streamlit, OpenAI API, Google OR-Tools, Docker
Built a comparative study between OpenAI's o1 model and Google OR-Tools for optimizing basketball team rotations, demonstrating different approaches to complex scheduling constraints.
Key Features:
- Interactive web interface using Streamlit
- Side-by-side comparison of LLM vs OR-Tools solutions
- Complex constraint handling
- Visual rotation schedule representation
AI-Powered Math Learning Assistant
LangGraph, Streamlit, Docker, StateGraph
Developed an intelligent math tutoring system using LangGraph for reliable and controlled question generation workflows.
Key Features:
- Grade-adaptive questioning system (Pre-K to 12th)
- Sophisticated state machine for question generation
- Comprehensive validation workflow
- Real-time hint generation
RAG-Powered Document Intelligence System
Python, FastAPI, Streamlit, LangChain, Docker
Built a production-grade RAG (Retrieval Augmented Generation) application with separated frontend/backend architecture, enabling intelligent document conversations with custom PDFs.
Key Features:
- Hugging Face embeddings with FAISS vector storage
- Docker containerization with Make automation
- Production-ready architecture with clear separation of concerns
Impact & Experience
AI & Data Science Leadership
Director of Data Science & Lead Data Science Roles
- GenAI initiatives including LLM implementation for document processing
- Developed and monetized data science applications connecting customer shipment data to transportation optimization
- External-facing Data Science application evaluating supply chain efficiency
Technical Innovation
Principal & Senior Data Scientist Roles
- Architected modern data solutions using Docker, FastAPI, and cloud technologies
- Led implementation of recommendation systems and supply chain optimization tools
- Pioneered data product development across multiple Fortune 500 companies
Financial & Analytical Foundations
Strategic Roles at Target & Best Buy
- Drove financial planning, forecasting, and inventory optimization efforts with measurable impact
- Created pricing and capital models that generated multi-million-dollar profitability improvements
- Led teams and mentored analysts, laying the foundation for data-driven executive leadership
Technical Expertise
AI & Machine Learning
- Large Language Models (LLMs)
- Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG)
- Natural Language Processing
- Machine Learning
Technologies
- Python, Docker, FastAPI
- Azure & Google Cloud Platform
- LangChain, Transformers
- Streamlit, Plotly, Dash
- SQL, NoSQL, Vector Databases
Leadership
- AI Strategy & Implementation
- Team Development & Mentoring
- Product Monetization
- Digital Transformation
- Executive Coaching
Teaching & Communication
- Technical Training Development
- One-on-One Coaching
- Public Speaking
- Complex Concept Simplification
- Technical Documentation
Conference Presentations
AutoML: Automating Data Science
MinneAnalytics Data Tech 2019
Explored how AutoML tools can enhance data scientist productivity while discussing the balance between automation and expertise. Demonstrated practical applications of AutoML in real-world scenarios.
Key Points:
- AutoML for data preparation and model tuning
- Impact on data science team efficiency
- Live tool demonstration
ETL Clickstream to Data Product APIs
MinneAnalytics MinneFrama 2018
Demonstrated a four-step process to transform clickstream data into production-ready ML models and APIs, requiring no backend engineering support.
Technologies:
- Apache Spark
- Cloud Computing
- REST APIs
Algorithmic Product Recommendations
MinneAnalytics FARCON 2015
Deep dive into the mathematics behind product recommendation systems, including live demonstrations of algorithms in action.
Focus Areas:
- Recommendation algorithms
- Customer experience enhancement
- Live system demonstration
Beyond Technology
Professional Natural Physique Athlete
NGA Pro Male Physique Competitor since 2015
Key Achievements:
- 2025 NGA Hardbodies - 1st Place Pro Open Physique
- 2015 NGA Titan Classic - 1st Place Open Physique (Pro Card)
My discipline in competitive bodybuilding translates directly to how I approach teaching and coaching. The same principles of consistent progress, measurable results, and breaking down complex goals into actionable steps are foundational to both areas of my life.
Ready to Learn Coding with AI?
Let's work together to transform your technical skills and empower your leadership.
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