ReCAP: Haiyang “Ocean” Zhang

Name: Haiyang “Ocean” Zhang

Employer: Principal Financial Group

Job Title: Data and Operations Research Scientist

Primary Job Functions

• Data Visualization
• Data Design
• Process Improvement
• Project Management

Date CAP Certification Was Earned

October 7, 2019

What is your opinion on the value of professional certifications?

Professional certifications encourage related professionals to keep learning and meet the standard of a certain industry. People with a professional certification can show employers and customers that they have the required skills to perform the professional work.

Do you think that earning aCAP is important for students?

Yes. CAP or aCAP provides students the opportunity to learn more about the data analytics field. It’s not just about the analytical skills, but also project management skills like business problem framing.

How much time did you dedicate to studying for the exam?

I spent about 16 hours to study.

What other INFORMS programs have you participated in?

I’ve been involved in the WORMS community for more than a year.

Describe any potential barriers in the industry you see for those who are not certified?

Lack of a professional certification could potentially lessen job opportunities and reduce the learning opportunities to improve skills.

What is the best advice you can give to someone studying for the exam right now?

I would suggest starting with reading the Job Task Analysis and identifying your gap by sections, and then focus on reading through the CAP handbook and study guide. I also suggest to those studying for the exam to create a formula sheet if they are not familiar with statistics.