Lauren Burke-McCarthy is a Sr. Data Scientist, Strategy at Further, where she builds models and systems that improve understanding of user needs, enhance products, and discover opportunities. She began her data science career in the retail space, developing solutions across several areas including supply chain, inventory management, and enterprise business.

Outside of work, Lauren is an active member of both local and larger tech communities. As the Director of Operations of Women in Analytics, a global community that promotes visibility to women making an impact in the analytics space, her primary focus lies in strategy and community growth. She hosts the WIA After Hours podcast and is an Instructor of Business Analytics at Denison University's Denison Edge.

Lauren is an avid supporter of initiatives that foster enthusiasm for STEM and encourage the development of creative problem-solving skills. She serves as a Core Advisor on the Midwest Big Data Hub's Community Advisory Panel, a member of TECH CORPS' Regional Steering Committee, Chair of COSI's KINETIC Board, and a member of the scikit-learn Communication Team. She is the recipient of the inaugural Ohio Trailblazers Award, celebrating women transforming Ohio tech.

Leveraging 20+ years of technology and analytics experience, I have helped organizations reduce operating costs by 10-15% freeing up funds for strategic investments, reduce employee turnover rates to as low as 4%, and streamline service delivery to improve customer satisfaction.

My technology and analytics approach works equally well in large, complex organizations with over $1B in revenues and smaller companies with revenues in the $1-5M range. I also bring over 10 years of first-hand senior living experience as the primary caregiver to my mother who has lived in Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care communities in Ohio and Florida.

I am the author of Managing Elder Care from Afar: A Practical Guide for Busy People and have helped over 50 families navigate the caregiving journey.