Akshay’s Inspiring Journey as a Senior Data Analyst

Building a successful career in Data Analytics requires determination, especially for professionals shifting from non-IT backgrounds. Akshay’s journey is a true example of this transformation. A Mechanical Engineering graduate, he transitioned into the world of data through DataMites’ comprehensive training and today works as a Senior Data Analyst at ValueWorks. His story reflects the impact of practical learning, strong foundational skills, dedicated discipline, and the power of consistent effort, an inspiring path for aspiring data professionals.

Akshay’s Journey to Senior Data Analyst 

Akshay’s Journey to Senior Data Analyst highlights how structured learning, real-world projects, and dedicated practice similar to top IT courses in Nagpur can empower professionals from non-IT backgrounds to transition successfully into data-driven careers in affordable cost of data analyst course.

1. How did your transition into Data Analytics begin?

My transition started when I realized that even traditional industries like engineering were becoming data-driven. With a Mechanical Engineering background, I needed a structured learning path. DataMites’ program with SQL, Python, and real case studies helped me bridge the gap quickly.

2. What was your learning experience at DataMites like?

I joined in 2021 during COVID, so my course was online. We had 2-hour sessions for 5 days a week. The curriculum, mentoring, and practical projects   such as insurance claim prediction, flight price prediction, and COVID dashboarding   aligned closely with industry requirements.

3. As a Mechanical Engineer, was learning programming difficult?

Not really. I had some programming exposure in school (C++, Java), but after 10–12 years, Python felt very beginner-friendly. With strong basics and consistent practice, picking it up was smooth.

4. How was your experience learning Machine Learning?

I always loved mathematics, so statistics came naturally. Understanding statistics thoroughly made ML concepts easier. We worked on predictive models like XGBoost and others, which strengthened my understanding.

5. How did you manage your study routine while working?

My classes were from 8 PM to 10 PM. Real learning happened over weekends. I followed the Pomodoro Technique and studied nearly 12 hours across weekends with structured breaks.

Refer to the articles below:

• Augmented Analytics Explained: How AI is Reshaping the Data Analyst Role
• How to Learn SQL for Data Analysis
• Correlation vs Covariance for Analysis

6. What internship projects did you work on?

I worked on:

• Insurance claim prediction
• Flight price prediction
• Rice leaf disease detection
• COVID-19 dashboards using the John Hopkins dataset

More than the projects, understanding the end-to-end analytics pipeline   SQL → preprocessing → dashboards   was crucial.

7. How did you prepare for job interviews?

I learned from YouTube and international university lectures. Today, I recommend using AI tools like:

• Elicit (for research papers)
• Napkin AI (for data storytelling)
• AI-assisted workflows can greatly accelerate learning.

8. Which job portals helped you the most?

To my surprise, I got a call directly from Naukri.com, without applying for the role. I also stayed active on LinkedIn   referrals and connections are very important.

9. What kind of interview questions were asked?

I completed a 30-minute technical test on:

• SQL
• Python
• Advanced Excel

After that, my manager evaluated my data storytelling ability and how well I could convert insights into meaningful narratives.

10. What is your day-to-day role as a Senior Data Analyst at ValueWorks?

I work in workforce intelligence and salary benchmarking for clients like Indeed, LinkedIn, TeamLease, etc. My work includes:

• Data extraction & cleaning (SQL, Python)
• Dashboard creation (Power BI, Tableau)
• Research-based storytelling
• Presenting insights for board-level decision-making

11. Which tools do you use regularly?

My essential tools are:

• SQL
• Python
• Advanced Excel
• Power BI / Tableau

Additionally, AI workflows are becoming key in 2025.

12. What additional skills should aspiring analysts build in 2025?

Surprisingly, communication skills are more important than ever. Many students create GitHub projects but fail to explain them well.

Technically, mastering AI-driven workflows will keep you future-ready.

13. Are you working remotely or from the office?

I’m fully remote from Pune, although my company office is in Bangalore.

14. What is your final advice for learners?

Focus on fundamentals, practice consistently, build storytelling skills, and use AI tools smartly. The market rewards those who combine technical depth with communication excellence.

Key Findings from Akshay’s Journey

Akshay’s journey stands out among DataMites success stories, showcasing how strong training, disciplined learning, and real-world project experience can transform a mechanical engineer into a successful senior data analyst.                                   

1. Strong Technical Foundation Through DataMites Training

DataMites one of the top data analytics training institute in India equipped Akshay with solid skills in SQL, Python, Machine Learning, and hands-on capstone projects that built his technical confidence.

2. Practical Learning Through Real-World Projects

Internship and capstone projects helped him understand the end-to-end analytics workflow from data extraction to dashboard creation.

3. Consistent Study Routine & Effective Learning Techniques

His disciplined weekend study plan, supported by the Pomodoro technique, played a key role in mastering analytics concepts.

4. Importance of Statistics for Machine Learning Success

A deep understanding of statistics enabled him to grasp ML algorithms more effectively.

5. Strategic Job Preparation & Use of Modern Tools

He prepared through YouTube lectures, leveraged AI tools for research, and used platforms like Naukri.com and LinkedIn for job opportunities.

6. Essential Skills for Career Growth in 2025

In his current analytics role, he relies on SQL, Python, Excel, and Power BI. He emphasizes that communication skills and AI-driven workflows are crucial for future data professionals.

Akshay’s journey reflects how the right guidance, consistent effort, and real-world exposure can transform careers. His growth from a mechanical engineer to a Senior Data Analyst proves that with dedication and quality training, anyone can build a thriving future in data analytics.

Refer to the articles below:

• Prajwal’s transition from commerce graduate to data analyst
• From System Engineer to Data Analyst: Aishwarya’s Career Transition
• Harsh’s career transition from non-tech background to data analyst

DataMites Institute is a premier IT training center offering Data Analyst Training in Nagpur, along with specialized programs in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Python, and IoT. Through practical learning, real-time projects, internships, and strong placement support, DataMites equips learners with job-ready skills and globally recognized certifications from IABAC and NASSCOM FutureSkills.

In addition to its Data Analytics Course in Indore, DataMites provides industry-driven and flexible learning pathways across major cities including Bangalore, Pune, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad empowering students to build rewarding careers in analytics and emerging digital technologies.