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Faces of UMSI: Karl Haviland

Faces of UMSI: Karl Haviland, Master of Applied Data Science

Karl Haviland has been working in the technology sector for 18 years. He decided to enroll in the Master of Applied Data Science program because he saw how technologist roles were changing with the rise of artificial intelligence.

In this profile, Karl discusses the benefits of the MADS program and how he manages taking classes and running a business at the same time. 

 

My name is Karl Haviland (he/him) and I grew up in Harrisburg, PA, where I was captain of the soccer team and lead in the school musical. I studied computer science and music at Lycoming College, and I completed an MBA and a masters in IT project management from Shippensburg University and Harrisburg University, respectively. I currently live and work outside of New York City.

Over the last 18 years I have served in a few roles as a computer scientist, technology executive and entrepreneur. I currently run Haviland Software, a small but mighty AI-driven software company that builds customized software and models on the cloud.

I enrolled in UMSI’s Master of Applied Data Science program because I saw the role of a CTO/CIO and technologist change with the rise of AI. My family is from Detroit and it has always been a goal of mine to graduate from University of Michigan. This program gave me that opportunity. 

To address the challenge of managing my time while running a company, I have relied on the time-honored approach of sticking to a set schedule. It keeps the information fresh in my mind, allows me to progress in manageable bites, and makes my busy schedule easier to work around. 

What surprised me the most about the MADS program was the organization, quality and support provided in each course. I find that I consistently apply things that I learned to my business.

In my opinion, the most beneficial aspect of the program is its versatile and relevant content. I find that most courses provide some level of intersection with my daily work and have helped me to deliver higher quality services to my clients. And despite the virtual nature of the program, I have found the professors, administrators and students to be very engaged with and supportive of one another.