Meet Jacob Smith, Data Engineer here at Populi. When he’s not delivering high-quality, kick-ass datasets to customers, you can find him enjoying all that D.C. has to offer and dreaming about soaring through space.

Q: What’s your role at Populi, and what does an average day look like for you?

A: I’m a Data Engineer at Populi. Our team develops the tools and systems that ensure accurate and timely delivery of data to customers for new and existing products. We’re always looking for ways to improve the process and provide the highest quality datasets to customers!

Q:  What do you think is the most important benefit of the detailed healthcare analytics and insights that Populi provides?

A: Populi is providing healthcare systems with unprecedented data and insights into the activity of payers and patients across their population. The data we produce is used to improve the processes behind the care provided by healthcare systems. We all know there’s a lot of room for improvement in the healthcare industry, and the data we provide is a step in the right direction regarding transparency and improvements to patient care. When companies have more insight into their population and interactions, they can make more informed decisions and improve their care. You can’t have too much data!

Q: What’s your favorite thing about working for Populi?

A: I love the culture and the team dynamics here at Populi. It’s such a treat to be surrounded by such hard-working and intelligent people, and I learn new things every day. There’s never a dull moment and the collaboration among team members is always smooth.

Q: Why should someone join your team at Populi?

A: Data engineering at Populi is unlike any previous experience I’ve had in the data engineering field. We’re working with massive amounts of real-world data on a daily basis and making a positive impact in the world of healthcare. It’s highly rewarding and fast-paced, so if you’re into that kind of thing, you’d love it here.

Q: How do you like to spend your free time?

A: In my free time, I love to play piano, rock climb and work out at the gym. In the winter, you can find me hitting the slopes on my skis, and any other time of the year, I’m looking for local events in D.C. to fill the time!

Q: What’s at the top of your bucket list?

A: Going to space! Since I was a kid, the stars and planets have captured my imagination, and going to space will always be number one on the list for me.

Q: What’s your go-to midnight snack?

A: A nice heaping spoonful of peanut butter and a glass of milk.

Q: Which fictional character do you relate to most?

A: People have always said I remind them of Ferb from Phineas and Ferb, so I’ll go with him.