August Spotlight: Dr. Andrew Parker — Powering Data-Driven Decision Making at Scale   

At STEERBRIDGE, we celebrate the innovators who bring passion, precision, and purpose to our mission. For the month of August, we’re proud to highlight Dr. Andrew Parker, Director of Data Science, Machine Learning Operations. Based in San Diego, Andrew is a data science leader whose analytical rigor and operational foresight have advanced STEERBRIDGE’s work in groundbreaking ways.   

With a rare combination of academic excellence, real-world experience, and an intuitive sense for solving complex technical problems, Andrew is not only building advanced machine learning models, he’s also making them understandable and useful across diverse stakeholders. As he says, “You can build the most sophisticated model in the world, but if you can’t explain the value it creates, it won’t have an impact.” 

A Career Rooted in Curiosity 

Andrew’s data science journey began with a fascination for solving puzzles, an intellectual curiosity that evolved into a Ph.D. in computer science and eventually led to positions across start-ups, medical devices, financial services, and federal contracting. This diverse background has shaped his multidisciplinary approach to analytics, which blends mathematical modeling, statistical inference, and machine learning. 

“When I transitioned from academia to industry, I saw how important it was to focus on practical results,” Andrew explained. “The tools and theory are important, but the real test is whether your work can drive decisions and improve outcomes.” 

Director, Data Science – Machine Learning Operations 

As STEERBRIDGE’s Director of Data Science – MLOps, Andrew serves as both architect and translator. His work involves building predictive models, designing data pipelines, and engineering systems that scale, while also communicating complex technical findings to leadership and non-technical stakeholders. 

Andrew’s contributions to STEERBRIDGE's AI initiatives are especially notable. He helps lead efforts to apply artificial intelligence to improve operational readiness and long-term support strategies. Andrew’s role has centered around creating advanced sampling and inference systems that empower faster, more accurate, and more informed decision-making. 

A Sampling Algorithm: Simplifying Complexity 

Among his most impactful contributions is the sampling algorithm he is developing, a powerful statistical technique used for generating samples from complex, high-dimensional distributions. Andrew applies this method to enhance model estimation, especially in scenarios where traditional methods fall short. 

“A sampling algorithm is elegant in how it transforms an intractable problem into something solvable,” Andrew noted. “It allows us to infer hidden patterns and relationships in data, even when the underlying structure is very complex.” 

The algorithm he’s building is not just theoretical. It’s designed with practical performance in mind, delivering results that are explainable, reliable, and adaptable across applications. This type of development represents the cutting edge of machine learning operations and reflects Andrew’s ability to turn rigorous academic methods into working tools for mission support. 

Recognized by Leadership 

CTO Devin Dupaix described Andrew’s work as emblematic of the high-caliber innovation that STEERBRIDGE champions. “Andrew is helping define what data science looks like at STEERBRIDGE, not just in terms of capability, but in how it connects to mission delivery,” Devin said. “His sampling algorithm work is just one example of the type of technical leadership we’re proud to highlight.” 

A Philosophy of Applied Science 

Andrew’s philosophy blends intellectual rigor with practical application. He believes strongly in the value of explainability and communication in data science, arguing that even the most advanced models are only as good as the insights they enable. 

“A big part of what I do is education, not in the traditional sense, but in helping colleagues and stakeholders understand how and why our models work. When people understand the mechanics, they trust the output more. That trust is what unlocks the full value of data science,” he said. 

This mindset helps Andrew bridge the gap between science and service, bringing real value to the table for internal teams and mission partners alike. 

Looking Ahead 

Andrew is currently focused on scaling his sampling algorithm and building the infrastructure needed to support broader data science initiatives across STEERBRIDGE. He’s also working on new applications of Bayesian inference, simulation-based modeling, and real-time analytics, all of which have the potential to increase the precision and performance of key solutions. 

As data becomes increasingly central to national and defense operations, STEERBRIDGE continues to invest in the people and platforms that bring clarity to complexity. Leaders like Andrew play a pivotal role in this strategy, demonstrating that technical excellence, grounded in mission-focused execution, is the key to sustainable innovation. 

Advice for Aspiring Data Scientists 

For those looking to follow in his footsteps, Andrew offers a few pieces of advice: 

Focus on Fundamentals: “Understanding probability, statistics, and linear algebra will get you further than knowing the trendiest tools.” 

Communicate with Clarity: “If you can explain your model to a non-technical person, you truly understand it.” 

Be Curious: “The best data scientists aren’t just smart. They’re endlessly curious.” 

Stay Humble: “No model is perfect. Be open to critique, test your assumptions, and keep learning.” 

Final Thoughts 

Andrew’s impact at STEERBRIDGE extends beyond code and computation. He represents what it means to lead through knowledge, to apply theory to real-world impact, and to mentor others while continuing to learn himself. 

“The problems we’re solving are complex,” Andrew said. “But when we stay grounded in purpose, remain committed to clarity, and support one another, there’s nothing we can’t tackle.” 

We’re honored to feature Dr. Andrew Parker as our August Spotlight of the Month. His work continues to advance our capabilities and elevate the mission. 

Interested in working with data science leaders like Andrew? Learn more about careers at STEERBRIDGE by visiting our Join Our Team page.