Deacon Spotlight: Brayan Martinez

Brayan Martinez (BS 2021 in Engineering, Minor in Computer Science)

Senior Technology Consultant – Data and Analytics at EY in Charlotte, NC

Tell us about your current job role/employer and what you’re currently working on. 

My role in the data and analytics space typically involves working with clients to help them leverage data-driven insights and implement technology solutions to enhance their business processes and decision-making. My day-to-day tasks may include the analysis and interpretation of data (data visualization, statistical analysis, etc.) to the management of the availability, usability, integrity, and security of the data used in a financial institution. I am currently working on obtaining several technical certifications such as AWS and Snowflake.

What personal and/or career experiences did you have prior to landing your current job and leading to where you are now?

Prior to my full-time role, I was deeply involved in data-driven internships. I promoted my growth through interning as a Software Engineer at a local mid-size company focusing on digital media and manipulating data, and as a Data Science intern at an SC-based company specializing in telematics for energy vehicles/buses. These experiences helped shape my pursuit in the Data and Analytics practice at EY.

What was the most challenging aspect of your first “real world job” and what did you learn from it?

The most challenging aspect that has come to fruition in this ‘real world job’ is effectively communicating directly with clients and understanding the business requirements of an engagement or deliverable. Being able to exchange ideas with others, holding conversations around what can and can’t be done, and then building relationships with clients can be difficult if there isn’t always agreement on both sides. From my various conversations with clients, we always try to have a mix of ideas/approaches to an issue so, in the end, we can address the issue/requirements while also making the client happy.

What advice would you give to new Wake Forest graduates about developing their personal life habits after college (finances, health, values, work/life balance)?

Developing a healthy balance between work and outside activities is essential to avoid feeling ‘burnt-out’ from your full-time role. Establishing boundaries and knowing when to say NO are two things I have learned through my years in my current role. There is sometimes a conflict with wanting to leave a good impression by taking on more work as a new hire, but that may not be the best pursuit in the long run. Additionally, taking time to de-stress/relax is very important. Our firm encourages individuals to take time off when they need it, leading to a better-balanced schedule.

How have you made personal and professional relationships in your city, company, or community?

Attending networking events and getting involved with initiatives have helped me connect with people I wouldn’t have met otherwise. The more you venture and speak to people at these events, the more your opportunities grow – not only internally at the firm but also outside of work. I have also taken advantage of networking by getting involved with recruiting and guiding students to the right people who can share more about their day-to-day experiences.

Have you been mentored by anyone at Wake Forest or in your professional life? If so, what impact has that relationship had on you?

As part of the first class of Engineers at Wake, I felt that the professors were mentors to all their students. The relationships I built during my undergraduate years have certainly shaped who I am today and what opportunities I have to give back to the program. Additionally, at EY, I have grown immensely by being under the wing of several Senior Managers and Partners/Directors – understanding what occurs behind the scenes at a large firm, gaining insight into their way of thinking, and exploring different/new solutions to problems. This has encouraged me to start thinking outside of the box and to start thinking big, no matter how small the concept at hand is.

What advice would you give to current Wake Forest students and/or young alumni who are about to start their first professional job?

A few pieces of advice to those starting their first job – do not be afraid to ask questions, attend events, and be someone that everyone enjoys being around. Asking the right questions helps you understand whatever is at hand better; attending events allows you to expand your network even further, and bringing positivity to the workplace or your team will create more opportunities.

What are your future career goals or plans? How are you being intentional about working towards them?

My future goals are to continue learning as much as possible in the Data and Analytics space, which will, hopefully, allow me to become a subject-matter expert in my own way. This includes getting involved in more initiatives in the practice and completing certifications.

Story published in October 2023. For current updates on Brayan’s career path, visit his LinkedIn profile.