Kelsey Pearson, a Data Skills Credit recipient, significantly advanced her career after completing a Professional Development Award in Data Science with Code Division, funded through The Data Lab’s Data Skills for Work programme. We spoke to Kelsey about her journey from a Data Assistant to a Data & Analytics Consultant and how she still feels the benefits of gaining the qualification and community involvement in her career progression.
“I completed a PDA in Data Science with Code Division after receiving funding from The Data Lab. This was back in 2020-2021, and I still feel the benefits of receiving funding and gaining the qualification.”
The Challenge
Before embarking on the PDA in Data Science, Kelsey worked as a Data Assistant at NHS Lothian. She recognized the need to enhance her data skills and communication abilities to advance her career. While free online courses were available, Kelsey sought a more structured and comprehensive learning experience that could provide deeper insights and practical applications.
The Solution
Kelsey found the perfect opportunity through The Data Lab’s Data Skills for Work programme, which funded her place in the Code Division course.
“Though there are free and online data courses, I gained more from Code Division’s structured course. Getting to learn from experienced instructors was invaluable.”
The hands-on workshops and projects were instrumental in developing essential skills. The course enabled Kelsey to immediately apply her new knowledge at NHS Lothian, improving report development and data quality. Her efforts and newfound confidence led to her promotion to a Data Manager role in 2021, a testament to the practical impact of the skills she acquired.
The Outcome
Since completing the course, Kelsey’s career trajectory has continued to rise. In late 2023, she transitioned to a Business Intelligence Analyst position at the University of Edinburgh, where she developed Power BI reports to enhance decision-making processes.
“Despite having to learn a new tool, the soft skills I learned during the course and at work were more important.”
In February 2025, Kelsey took on the role of Data & Analytics Consultant with Rupe Ltd. Her passion for helping others understand their data has grown, leading her towards training delivery in Power BI, inspired by her instructors at Code Division.
“I’ve had an interest in delivering training since learning from the fantastic instructors at Code Division.”
The opportunity to engage with The Data Lab Community further enriched her experience. Regular participation in events and sharing her journey helped expand her understanding of the data world. Receiving the funding from The Data Lab also led her to become part of The Data Lab Community, benefiting from the continuous learning and networking opportunities experienced through this network. Kelsey’s story illustrates the transformative power of education and community support in navigating the data landscape. Her continued success is a powerful endorsement of the value offered by the Data Skills for Work programme.
Want to learn more about professional development support offered by The Data Lab? Visit our professional development page for more details on courses and support available to you.