Data Science/Engineering Pathway
The Data Science and Engineering pathway prepares students to collect, analyze, and interpret data while designing innovative solutions to real-world challenges. Students learn skills such as data analysis, engineering design, programming, statistics, automation, artificial intelligence, and problem-solving using industry-standard tools and technologies. Through hands-on projects and collaborative learning, students develop critical thinking, creativity, communication, and technical skills that are highly valued across a wide range of industries. This pathway can lead to careers such as data analyst, data scientist, engineer, machine learning specialist, systems engineer, research scientist, and business intelligence analyst. Students build a strong foundation for college, industry certifications, apprenticeships, and careers in the rapidly growing fields of data science, engineering, and emerging technologies.
Knowledge and Skills (ODE aligned)
Understand data structures and types
Apply statistical reasoning
Build basic models and analytics reports
Use data tools to solve real world problems
Present insights to diverse audiences
Examples of possible careers that ASCEND graduates can pursue
Market Research Analyst
Business Intelligence Developer
Junior Data Scientist
Machine Learning Engineer
Industry certifications (optional)
Adobe Certified Professional options
YouScience design aptitude badges
Future Opportunities
This pathway helps students build strong skills in mathematics, technology, and problem-solving to prepare for life after high school. Students can explore careers in data science, engineering, robotics, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. They can prepare for college, technical school, or industry certifications, and may have the opportunity to earn dual credit in select courses. These experiences help students gain the knowledge needed for high-demand careers in science, technology, and engineering fields.
Your Data Science and Engineering Teachers
MR. CARL YAO
Mr. Yao grew up in China and moved to the United States in 2000. He earned master’s degrees in computer science, education, and mathematics education from Portland State University. These degrees transformed his life, and he is passionate about helping his students achieve their own educational goals.
Mr. Yao has been teaching math at Oregon Charter Academy since 2009. He believes some of his greatest teachers are his students and values every conversation and learning opportunity they bring to the classroom. His enthusiasm for mathematics and dedication to student success are evident in everything he does.
In his free time, Mr. Yao officiates basketball, soccer, football, and lacrosse. He believes that staying active is just as important as earning degrees — a healthy body supports a healthy mind.
MRS. CRYSTAL REED
Crystal Reed is a high school mathematics teacher with 17 years of experience helping students build confidence and enjoy learning math. She earned her degree in General Science with minors in Mathematics and Spanish from Oregon State University and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Concordia University.
As Math Team Lead, Crystal strives to make math feel accessible and exciting. She enjoys using technology to design lessons that engage students so seamlessly, they often don’t even realize they’re learning math. Outside the classroom, she coaches volleyball and track and cheers on her three children at their sporting events.
DR. CYNTHIA LOFTS
I am so excited to be part of the ASCEND team and I am looking forward to seeing you in my classes. Most of my life I have owned my own business. I have experience in hospitality, tourism, managing employees and operations, as well as graphic and website design. I graduated with a BA in Economics from University of Washington and received my MAT Secondary Mathematics from University of Southern California. I completed my Doctorate from Grand Canyon University in Education. I began my teaching career in 2017. This year I will be teaching mathematics and CTE courses.
Interested in joining?
If you have any questions about the program please contact the Career Advisory Teachers, or fill out the Interested in Joining form below.
ASCEND PATHWAYS
Business + Management | Computer Science | Hospitality & Tourism Management | Medical Science | Ag/Veterinary Science | Data Science/Engineering | Criminal Justice & Criminology | Digital Arts, Media, and Graphic Design | Education/Teaching & Training | Environmental and Natural Resources | ASCEND Team