Wesley Burnett

About Wesley Burnett

Highly skilled and detail-oriented Research Economist and Data Analyst with over 15 years of experience and success in statistical analysis and economic research. Extensive experience in utilizing advanced econometric models, machine learning techniques, and data visualization tools such as R, STATA, Python, and GIS. Expertise in analyzing complex datasets, performing statistical modeling, and delivering actionable insights to drive business decisions. Proficient in a wide range of statistical techniques, including regression analysis, hypothesis testing, and time series analysis. Experienced in cleaning, preprocessing, and interpreting large datasets, ensuring accuracy and integrity throughout the analysis process. Proven track record of leading high-impact research at the USDA Economic Research Service, shaping agricultural, environmental, and rural development policies. Adept at streamlining data processes, improving research efficiency, and translating technical findings into actionable insights. Strong background in mentoring teams, fostering collaborations, and leading interdisciplinary research projects. Possess a deep understanding of machine learning algorithms and predictive analytics to uncover patterns, trends, and opportunities for optimization. Known for delivering data-driven solutions that enhance decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and support business growth. A collaborative team player with excellent communication skills, dedicated to translating complex data into understandable insights for stakeholders at all levels.PROFESSIONAL SKILLS• Skilled in data wrangling, cleansing, and transformation using SQL, Python (Pandas), and Excel.• Strong ability to interpret complex datasets to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies.• Expertise in econometric modeling, hypothesis testing, and data-driven policy evaluation.• Proficient in statistical software and programming languages such as R, Python, SAS, and Stata. • Capable of delivering strategic business recommendations based on analytical findings.• Proficient in hypothesis testing, regression modeling, and ANOVA for drawing actionable insights from data.• Experienced in designing and implementing research methodologies to support economic and policy analysis.• Hands-on experience with data pipelines, ETL processes, and cloud data platforms (e.g, AWS, Google BigQuery)• Familiar with machine learning fundamentals for classification, clustering, and predictive analytics.

Experience

1. Research Economist

   Usda Economic Research Service

   Dec 2020 — Present

   Led high-impact economic research on agricultural, environmental, and rural development policy, directly influencing federal recommendations and briefings to congressional staff and USDA leadership.• Developed and implemented advanced econometric models using Excel, STATA, R, and Python to analyze agricultural market trends, sustainability practices, and food security, resulting in more precise policy simulations and data forecasts.• Authored peer-reviewed reports and government publications, translating complex findings into actionable insights, which improved stakeholder understanding and increased policy adoption rates.• Delivered briefings and presentations to cross-agency stakeholders, enhancing collaboration between USDA, academic institutions, and NGOs on food systems and rural economic resilience.• Streamlined data analysis processes, increasing efficiency of research output and reducing reporting timelines by 15%.• Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to evaluate the economic implications of climate-smart agriculture and environmental conservation programs, supporting the USDA’s long-term sustainability goals.• Mentored junior analysts and interns, providing guidance on data analysis techniques and policy communication, fostering team growth and capacity building.

Education

• The University of Georgia

  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Applied Economics

  2005 — 2011

Skills

• Renewable Energy Policy
• Energy Economics
• Statistics
• Energy
• Matlab
• Sustainability
• Stata
• Quantitative Research
• Science
• Research
• Grant Writing
• Time Series Analysis
• Policy Analysis
• Program Evaluation
• Environmental Awareness
• Higher Education
• Data Analysis
• Public Policy
• Economics