Sam Plaquin

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT SAM PLAQUIN

I am a Canadian-American dual citizen and a Manager in the Housing Division of the Government of Alberta, leading a team focused on data-driven decision-making. With a background in machine learning, forecasting, and model development, supported by an MA in Economics from the University of Calgary, I excel at tackling complex and abstract problems, finding structured solutions where others might see ambiguity. My professional journey spans startups like PatiML, established multinational firms like Critical Mass, and the public sector, giving me a unique perspective on how to apply data insights across different organizational environments. Throughout my career, I\'ve demonstrated an exceptional ability to translate data into meaningful insights, a testament to my strong analytical skills and my proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, SQL, and STATA. My academic and professional experiences have fostered a robust analytical mindset, making me adept at tackling diverse data-related challenges while effectively communicating findings and strategies across various organizational levels. This ability to connect high-level strategy with precise execution makes me the kind of data leader who brings out the best in highly technical teams, freeing them to focus on what they do best while I chart the course that gets us to the right outcome. I can break down complicated concepts not just through graphs and charts, but also by weaving them into compelling narratives that resonate with both technical and non-technical audiences alike. My work extends beyond spreadsheets and code; I thrive in collaborative settings with project managers, creative teams, clients, and policy makers to develop innovative, data-driven solutions.