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Patrick Atwater
Talks about California, water, urban science, and infrastructure
Professional Background
Patrick Atwater is a visionary data scientist and product manager whose work has made significant contributions to the fields of economic mobility and environmental sustainability. Currently serving as a Senior Research Analyst at California Forward, Patrick spearheads the development of the California Dream Index, the organization’s flagship analytics tool that effectively tracks and analyzes economic mobility throughout the diverse landscape of California. His role has been crucial in shaping policy discussions and strategic initiatives that aim to enhance economic opportunities for Californians across various demographics.
Before joining California Forward, Patrick was a pioneer in the creation of a California water data analytics non-governmental organization (NGO). He successfully raised initial investment funding and meticulously built a competent data science team from the ground up, demonstrating his strong leadership abilities and commitment to generating actionable insights from complex data. Under his guidance, the organization achieved remarkable growth, with utility subscriptions surpassing $300,000 in annual recurring revenue—a testament to Patrick's exceptional acumen in both data analytics and business development.
Patrick's expertise in data science and analytics has earned him recognition beyond the confines of California. His research and analyses have been published in high-impact journals, including the Annals of Applied Statistics, which is considered the leading journal in this field. Additionally, his work has been featured in notable industry outlets such as Harper's Magazine and KNX news radio, solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in data-driven decision-making and civic analytics.
Education and Achievements
Patrick's academic journey laid the foundational knowledge that has supported his successful career in data science and analytics. He graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics, as well as in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) from Claremont McKenna College. This unique combination of disciplines has enabled him to navigate complex societal issues through a quantitative lens, bridging the gap between data analysis and qualitative factors.
To further enhance his expertise, Patrick pursued a Master’s Degree in Urban Science and Informatics at New York University (NYU). This advanced education equipped him with specialized knowledge in leveraging data to address urban challenges and improve city governance. His academic background is complemented by an independent study with noted expert Sherry Jeffe at the University of Southern California, where he honed his skills in public policy analysis and political strategy.
Patrick’s broad educational background has instilled in him a holistic understanding of the multifaceted nature of urban issues, making him an invaluable asset in any data-driven initiative.
Professional Journey and Notable Contributions
In his professional career, Patrick has held several pivotal positions that highlight his expertise and versatility in the data field.
- Civic Data Scientist at ARGO (Applied Research in Government Operations): Here, he contributed to the application of data science in governmental settings, promoting transparency and efficiency in public operations.
- Consulting Data Engineer at Enigma Technologies, Inc.: In this role, Patrick utilized his strong analytical skills to develop data solutions aimed at improving client outcomes and optimizing operational performance.
- Analyst at PFM (Public Financial Management): Patrick helped in shaping financial strategies through rigorous data analysis, demonstrating his ability to translate complex data into practical insights for nonprofits and public sector organizations.
- Redistricting and Demographics Manager at the Rose Institute of State and Local Government: In this capacity, he was instrumental in analytical projects that influenced policy-making and demographic research.
- Senior Business Analyst at Tripepi Smith: Patrick furthered his expertise in business analytics, facilitating data-driven strategies that supported various clients in the governmental sector.
He also co-founded and served as an advisor for the California Data Collaborative, illustrating his commitment to fostering collaboration among data practitioners and promoting data sharing for enhanced governance. His tenure as a Fellow at Coro Southern California enriched Patrick’s leadership skills and further entrenched him in the civic engagement landscape.
Achievements
Throughout his impressive career, Patrick Atwater has demonstrated a consistent commitment to improving public policy and governance through the power of data analytics. His notable achievements include:
- Successful development and launch of innovative data analytics tools and projects aimed at measuring and enhancing economic mobility and environmental sustainability.
- Recognition in prestigious publications, highlighting his research findings and contributions to civic data science.
- Establishing a thriving NGO dedicated to water data analytics that achieved outstanding financial sustainability in a short time period.
- Building and leading high-performing data teams that have driven critical projects in both the public and non-profit sectors.
- Impacting policy decisions through his comprehensive analyses and data-driven recommendations, solidifying his role as an influential figure in the world of civic analytics.
Patrick Atwater’s journey reflects a blend of academic prowess and practical application of data science. His extensive experience and dedication to improving economic mobility and environmental sustainability through sophisticated analytics position him as a key player in transforming data into solutions for complex urban challenges. As he continues to advance in his career, Patrick remains committed to leveraging data science to empower communities and drive positive change across California and beyond.
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