From Academia to Enterprise: A Data Expert's Journey to EPAM Argentina

From Academia to Enterprise: A Data Expert's Journey to EPAM Argentina

For decades, EPAM has been a strategic ally for the world’s most successful companies, helping them turn information into a robust data foundation and deliver value for their businesses. Now, in the age of AI, this approach has become even more relevant as data is at the heart of modern LLMs and Machine Learning technologies.

Latin America plays an increasingly strategic role in EPAM’s position as an industry leader in providing data solutions. From engineering talent to data expertise, the LATAM region is unlocking new opportunities for advanced analytics and global-scale AI implementations. Behind this transformation is a growing community of experts pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. We spoke with Martin Garriga, Associate Chief Data Software Engineer at EPAM Argentina, about his career journey, the role of data in the modern enterprise and how current trends are creating new opportunities for data experts all over the region.

When a Data Career Finds You

Martin showed interest in technology from an early age, from playing video games to taking apart computers and putting them back together. When it came to choosing a college program, Computer Science was the natural choice. After earning a bachelor’s degree, he went on to achieve a doctorial degree from the National University of Central Buenos Aires (UNICEN) in Argentina.

While Martin’s multiple degrees in his time in academia, experience as a professor and profound knowledge of tech solutions such as the Cloud and Software Architecture validate that he is indeed  a brilliant technologist, data wasn’t always his strong suit. In fact, he recalls it as one of the subjects he struggled with most during his academic years. “Quite frankly,” he admits, “I didn’t choose data — data chose me.”

He started his journey in the enterprise software world as an expert in Cloud, Microservices and Architecture. Yet, when Machine Learning (ML) and Data Science became an essential part of the IT world, he started thinking of how to apply basic computer science to these new trends.

Initially, he thought about becoming a data scientist, but people who knew his strong capabilities and innovative mindset pointed him toward data engineering, Machine Learning Operations and data modeling.

Switching Lanes

After more than a decade in academia and research, with expansive degrees from universities across multiple countries, Martin decided to switch to the corporate world. The main reason for this switch was simple, he wanted to make an impact and work at a larger scale, and this is only possibly at global company that has the alliances, projects, customers and structure to create something that’ll change the lives of potentially millions of end users.

Since he’s been at EPAM, Martín has found connections with both the culture of the company and the work itself. The scope, objectives and technologies required for success align perfectly with his expertise, giving him the chance to work on something truly, alongside a supportive and collaborative group of like-minded individuals focused on delivering excellence.

Martín also notes the flexibility he found upon joining the company. “EPAM doesn’t just throw you out there; they consider your skills and even give you a choice of project, so you can truly make a difference. There’s a huge number of projects, so there’s always something for everyone,” he states.

The EPAM Difference

EPAM Argentina’s friendly culture of engineering excellence and collaboration is one of the key differentiators that make Martín love EPAM.

Most companies are looking towards AI as a way to stay up-to-date with technology to obtain better outcomes and an edge over their competitors is looking to transform their organization. When it comes to these processes, Martin highlights the importance of having the right data, making sure it’s properly curated, and most importantly, not forgetting about the human side of technology. He aims to create a strong collaborative relationship between technology and humanity.

“Data is the new ‘oil,’” states Martín, highlighting its importance for the modern enterprise. Yet, he believes companies are treating it as an afterthought. “One of the advantages of working at EPAM is that we see everything as a system and create solutions that work together in harmony,” he says. “This allows our customers to truly derive value from the technology we’ve crafted for them.”

Another key factor that sets EPAM apart from other companies is the people. Martín describes his colleagues as individuals who support each other as they assist each other in learning new skills and filling in knowledge gaps, while keeping each other motivated to give their best.

This, paired with EPAM’s continued growth in Latin America, as well as recent acquisitions of companies including S4N, Vates and NEORIS, creates an ideal environment for engineers in the region to grow their skills and reach their goals.

The Road to Excellence

For Martín, one of the highlights of working at EPAM is the opportunity for personal and professional growth.

With the help of EPAM’s best in class tools, and a team of engineers of the highest level provide him with guidance. He’s been able to trace a path towards reaching his gools and fulfilling his potential from day one.

In fact, this is one of Martin’s favorite parts of being a part of the EPAM Argentina team. The high bar of engineering excellence that his peers set every day — and how confident he is that he works with the best in the business.

When asked what advice he would give people looking to join the company, he mentions that it’s crucial to always remember the basics. In the end, a strong foundation allows you to continue innovating and stay relevant in the tech industry. Without Python or SQL, it’ll be twice as hard to add AI, low-code or any other new tools into your inventory.

Want to join Martín’s team and be part of a supportive group of engineers making a difference in high-impact projects? Visit www.epam.com/careers and take the next step in your professional journey.