Sawyer S.
Q: Who are you? Where are you from?
A: I’m Sawyer Sacks, a Machine Learning Engineer at Modulate. I mostly grew up in Hoboken, NJ, which is right across the Hudson River from NYC. Some people may know it from the Cake Boss, but allegedly the first organized game of baseball was also played there. I first moved to the Boston area after graduating from college in 2021 and am currently living in Brookline.
Q: What’s your background? What did you do before Modulate?
A: I studied Mathematics and Computer Science at Cornell University. I really enjoyed project-based classes and learning more about how to apply theoretical mathematical concepts to real world problems. Before working at Modulate, I was a Quantitative Researcher at Columbia Threadneedle Investments, where I worked on developing models for systematic stock selection.
Q: Why are you joining Modulate?
A: I joined Modulate because I wanted to apply my skills and interests in mathematical modeling and machine learning outside of the financial industry. I’m incredibly excited to work with audio data and contribute to the mission of improving the safety of voice interactions. I’m also looking forward to being part of the collaborative and accepting work environment.
Q: What’s your ideal work environment? Any special strategies you use to stay effective?
A: My ideal work environment supports collaboration, has lots of open communication, and most importantly is made up of smart, kind, and creative people. To stay effective, I think it’s important to take frequent breaks and be passionate about what you are working on.
Q: Tell us about something you A: I’m Sawyer Sacks, a Machine Learning Engineer at Modulate. I mostly grew up in Hoboken, NJ, which is right across the Hudson River from NYC. Some people may know it from the Cake Boss, but allegedly the first organized game of baseball was also played there. I first moved to the Boston area after graduating from college in 2021 and am currently living in Brookline.have in any culture you join?
A: Honesty and openness are must haves for a company’s culture. You can’t have people afraid to speak their minds in fear of retaliation. Being able to be comfortable giving constructive feedback allows more opportunities for growth.
Q: Who are you outside of work?
A: Outside of work I like to try to stay active by playing basketball or going for a run. I enjoy cooking and playing guitar as well. I also do my best to continuously learn about new developments in the field of machine learning.
Q: What’s something you’re great at that few people realize?
A: I’m not the best writer, but I’m very good at writing about technical topics. Also I know how to juggle.
Q: Leave us with a fun tidbit - a favorite joke, a story from your past, an obscure riddle, whatever you like!
A: I’m named after Tom Sawyer, but I’m not quite as mischievous or rebellious as him!