Deployment Strategist at Palantir Technologies

Who are you?

My name is Inès, I am 25 years old, and I graduated from the MSc DSB, a 2-year program in partnership between HEC and Ecole Polytechnique. Despite having a predominantly business profile, I chose to continue my studies in a scientific field. Today, I am a Deployment Strategist at Palantir Technologies.

Why did you choose to enter Ecole Polytechnique?

During my gap year, I completed several internships, particularly in the field of strategy consulting. During these internships, I was able to work in modeling using the only softwares I knew at that time (Excel, SQL...), and I quickly saw the limitations in data processing.
Meanwhile, next to me was a consultant who graduated from Ecole Polytechnique, who knew how to code and, therefore, conducted more advanced analyses using Machine Learning to address client's questions.
His actions inspired me to learn and progress in this field of analysis that interested me greatly but in which I was limited in terms of skills.

What is your job about?  

I am a Deployment Strategist at Palantir Technologies, a data aggregation platform company. This platform allows clients in both the private and public sectors to integrate and store all their data in one place for processing, visualization, and decision-making.
My role involves deploying this software for our clients to help them build custom applications to address specific needs. As a result, I wear two hats, combining an understanding of the client's challenges with the construction of customized applications using our existing products.

What skills did you gain during your MSc&T and have been using in your current job?

1.    Coding Skills: Before this program, I had never coded. Today, I code on a daily basis thanks to the programming languages I have learned during this MSc program.
2.    General knowledge of data infrastructure and computing: I am no longer lost in technical discussions and can even participate or explain concepts to non-technical individuals.
3.    Professional Problem-solving: During the second year, we were presented with real business challenges from companies, and our mission was to solve them within a few weeks. This is very enriching!

What do you like the most about your job?

The flexibility to work the way I want, according to my profile and my way of working. I can organize my day and tasks according to my own productivity. For example, I can choose to code in the morning and focus on strategy in the afternoon, or vice versa. There are no strict schedules imposed.
With each project, I also have the opportunity to strike a balance between technical and business aspects based on my preferences and interests. On some projects, I may be more inclined to engage with clients, while on others, I might be more interested by the coding aspect.
How did Ecole Polytechnique enable you to access the job you hold today?
The company I work for today is predominantly composed of people who have pursued engineering studies. If I had applied for this position with only an HEC degree and no experience in the data field, my CV wouldn't even have been considered. Mentioning the name Ecole Polytechnique on my CV gave me legitimacy and opened certain doors in the field of science.

How did Ecole Polytechnique enable you to access the job you hold today?

The company I work for today is predominantly composed of people who have pursued engineering studies. If I had applied for this position with only an HEC degree and no experience in the data field, my CV wouldn't even have been considered. Mentioning the name Ecole Polytechnique on my CV gave me legitimacy and opened certain doors in the field of science.

What memories do you have of your time spent at l’X?

I remember working very hard! It was a return to stimulating subjects that I had missed, especially an intense refresher in mathematics. I also remember a great studious and ambitious atmosphere. There was a strong sense of mutual support within our cohort, with many late-night study sessions. I have very good memories of this time.

What are your ambitions for the future?  

I see myself continuing to work in the field of Data and Tech. I believe that many innovations and advancements will emerge from this domain. Since I work in a rapidly evolving field, I wish to keep learning new things. I also want to contribute to the development of new products and platforms centered around Data.
In the end, my daily routine might not be very different from what I do today.

If you had to describe the program in 3 words – which words would you choose?

•    Collaboration
•    Motivation
•    International

My cohort was a large group of highly motivated individuals eager to understand and grow. We frequently came together to share study notes and offer each other advice. Additionally, the program included people from all around the world, and some of them have now built international careers.

Do you have any advice for future students?

 
From what I observe around me, I believe the most challenging thing is to find out what we like and are most passionate about.

To all future students, it is vital to focus on what brings you joy and fulfillment on a daily basis, rather than only seeking a job after completing your studies. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals to understand their careers and daily experiences. Concentrate on your true passions, not only on what society deems valuable. Once you find that passion, don't set any limits for yourself.