James O'Connor
Evanston,IL
Summary
AI-focused Data Science student driven by curiosity and a belief in AI’s transformative potential for society. Passionate about designing intelligent tools that meaningfully help people, and bridging technical development with strategic thinking. Seeking opportunities to grow into AI consulting, applied research, or data-driven innovation roles where learning, experimentation, and impact align.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
AI Developer & Project Lead
Artificial Intelligence Student Association (AISA)
07.2025 - Current
- Developing an AI-powered web platform that enables Los Angeles County homeowners, planners, and builders to retrieve real-time zoning and rebuild information using natural language queries.
- Designed automated jurisdiction detection for City of LA, Pasadena, and unincorporated LA County with dynamic routing.
- Conducting research into zoning policy, assessor data, and decision workflows to ensure accuracy and usability.
- Architecting the full system including API endpoints, UI/UX, and deployment using Next.js 15 (React 19), TypeScript, TailwindCSS, and Vercel serverless functions.
Research Assistant/Co-Author
Artificial Intelligence Student Association (AISA)
04.2025 - 07.2025
- Co-authored the inaugural State of AI @ University of Oregon report, a comprehensive survey of campus-wide AI initiatives. Presented findings to the Dean of the Lillis School of Business, the University-wide AI Task Force, and the President’s Office, sparking faculty and leadership discussions on AI integration in higher education.
- Authored major sections on: Challenges and Concerns, Strategic Goals, and Implementation Recommendations, where I outlined actionable strategies across technical infrastructure, curriculum innovation, faculty development, and governance policy.
- Conducted extensive policy analysis and literature review using GPT-based research tools to generate evidence-based insights and strategic implementation pathways.
- The report received early sponsorship interest and recognition from Google Education directors as “one of the most impressive student-driven initiatives in the AI education space.”
Assistant Baseball Coach
Level Up Baseball & Softball
03.2022 - 06.2025
- Led training sessions and drills for 40+ players, focusing on skill development, conditioning, and fostering a growth mindset on the field.
- Instilled core values of respect, resilience, positivity, and sportsmanship, fostering a culture of teamwork and accountability.
- Built trust and strong relationships with players, parents, and staff, fostering clear communication and collaboration.
AI Trainer
RWS group
07.2024 - 12.2024
- Analyzed and labeled large datasets to train and fine-tune machine learning models for natural language processing, image recognition, and other AI applications.
- Provided detailed feedback on AI-generated outputs to identify errors, biases, and areas for improvement.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Data Science
University of Oregon
Eugene, OR11.2025
High school diploma or GED - undefined
Evanston Twp High School
Evanston, IL05.2023
Skills
- Python
- React (basic)
- Data Analysis
- Prompt Engineering
- Technical Writing & Research
- Machine Learning Fundamentals
Affiliations
Artificial Intelligence Student Association (AISA)
- Engaged in inclusive AI workshops, startup-speaker events, and student-led projects aimed at making artificial intelligence approachable and impactful.
Timeline
AI Developer & Project Lead
Artificial Intelligence Student Association (AISA)
07.2025 - Current
Research Assistant/Co-Author
Artificial Intelligence Student Association (AISA)
04.2025 - 07.2025
AI Trainer
RWS group
07.2024 - 12.2024
Assistant Baseball Coach
Level Up Baseball & Softball
03.2022 - 06.2025
High school diploma or GED - undefined
Evanston Twp High School
Bachelor of Science - Data Science
University of Oregon