Kumar Shivam’s close family members are highly educated. His father is dean of a medical college in India, his mother earned a master’s in history, and his sister recently graduated from dental school. He credits them as influencing his drive to explore the latest technological innovations.
"Technology is not only my job but also my passion," he said. "It allows us to solve complex problems, bring people together, and build things that last."
Early in his career, Shivam worked as a software developer for Wipro, a global IT solutions company, where he optimized SQL queries to reduce production time and helped build machine learning models to detect fraud for clients. Those projects ignited his enthusiasm to make a major impact through data analytics. To maximize his skills, Shivam pursued a Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) with a concentration in big data management and analytics at Georgia State’s Robinson College of Business.
His decision to attend Robinson was guided by the program’s national ranking; STEM designation; and faculty, who are world-renowned scholars and practicing business leaders from various industries. Shivam also knew he could grow exponentially through the many boot camps offered to students at no extra cost. With a tuition waiver and a graduate assistantship, Shivam enrolled in fall 2021.
Shivam expanded his solid technical foundation through courses such as Data Programming for Analytics, Big Data Analytics Experience, and IT Infrastructure for Big Data. Through a capstone project, he used machine learning to predict hotel reservation cancellations.
"That project allowed me to apply everything I’d learned," Shivam said. "We built something that could genuinely add business value."
In May 2022, Shivam secured a data science internship at Novelis, a leading producer and the world’s largest recycler of aluminum products. Shivam’s boss recognized his contributions and acknowledged his advanced skill set—a nod to the MSIS program’s progressive curriculum. He graduated in July 2022 and joined ADP one month later. As a data scientist, he helps build AI-powered tools within the company’s human capital management product portfolio.
“My first assignment at ADP was to design a machine learning algorithm that is still used by clients,” he said.
Shivam’s job involves embedding AI, specifically predictive analytics and chatbot functionality, into ADP’s systems to improve the user experience and ensure the company remains competitive in an ever-evolving industry.
“A master’s degree gives you the structure, platform, and confidence to step into roles that demand both theory and application,” he said. “Especially from a school like Robinson. It really adds value to your career.”