Digging In with Kevin Cox, Principal Consultant

Digging In is a regular series of blog posts profiling UDig employees.  We hope this series helps you get to know our team and understand why we dig what we do! Today, we are sitting down with Kevin Cox, Principal Consultant, Data & Analytics.  

UDig: Tell us a little bit about your background and your role at UDig.

KC: With 25 years of experience as a data professional spanning multiple industries, my journey began in consumer-packaged goods with PepsiCo, shifted to over a decade in higher education, and eventually led me into the healthcare and health insurance sectors in Nashville. This diverse background brought me to UDig where I’ve been for over two years as a Principal Consultant and one of our leads in our data practice. In this role, I provide technical oversight, act as a subject matter expert, and manage our client relationships. I work closely with Reid and other practice leaders to expand our services, refine our processes, and drive new business through proposal responses and project estimations. 

UDig: Why UDig? What made us the right decision for you?

KC: UDig was the perfect fit at this stage in my career. Having had a taste of consulting before, I wanted to dive back into it rather than joining a large Fortune 500 company. At UDig, the personal relationships and the smaller scale of operations mean that my voice is louder and more impactful. Here, I can drive change and achieve results while owning the delivery of our projects. I also relish the variety each day brings, with each client presenting unique challenges that keep my work exciting and fulfilling. 

UDig: What does “accelerate your success” mean to you?

KC: To me, “accelerate your success” is twofold: accelerating our clients’ success and our own at UDig. It’s about leveraging our tight-knit, trusting, and honest work environment to foster open conversations. These relationships enable me to guide our associates, consultants, and seniors in their career journeys, helping to propel the next generation towards greater achievements. Seeing their success flourish is incredibly rewarding. 

UDig: Tell us a little bit about your current consulting projects.

KC: Currently, I’m deeply involved with a state agency, working to conclude our statement of work by the end of the month. Our major focus has been on accelerating their success by integrating machine learning, predictive analytics, and enhanced data visualizations for their student population. We’re actively measuring and defining the impact of specific funding, playing a crucial role in delivering insightful analytics that predict future outcomes over the next 3-5 years. It’s a uniquely impactful project. Learn more about the work here. 

UDig: AI is a hot topic right now – what are some of the most interesting use cases you’ve seen recently?

KC: I’m particularly fascinated by our work with computer vision technologies. The ability to analyze images for supply and demand optimization in retail, for instance, is groundbreaking. We’re also exploring how computer analytics can improve public safety by monitoring traffic conditions and road safety. Another exciting project involves using a large language model to enhance customer service at the Department of Motor Vehicles. It’s thrilling to utilize these advanced technologies to transform data into actionable insights, improving customer experiences across various sectors. 

UDig: What is your favorite procrastination tool?

KC: Interestingly, I don’t usually procrastinate in the traditional sense; my go-to is taking a walk outside to clear my head. It’s a refreshing break that helps me reset and return to work with a sharper focus. 

UDig: What did you want to be when you grew up?

KC: From a young age, I was drawn to the world of computer science. I still have a newspaper clipping from fourth grade where I found information about being a computer scientist! By seventh grade, I was already taking computer courses, and I eventually pursued a degree in computer science. 

UDig: What’s the most played song or album in your music library?

KC: My music taste is quite eclectic, ranging from 90s alternative and industrial bands like Nine Inch Nails to the summery vibes of Jimmy Buffett and Kenny Chesney. It’s a blend influenced by what my parents listened to, along with my own discoveries during the 80s and 90s. 

UDig: What trivia category would you be best at?

KC: I’ve always been good at trivia, a skill honed by countless games of Trivial Pursuit growing up. I’m particularly strong in history and sports categories. 

UDig: How would you spend your day if we told you to take the day off?

KC: I would head straight for the great outdoors! Whether it’s hiking, paddling down a river, or white water rafting, I find there’s no better way to spend a day off than by immersing myself in nature and adventure.