Javier Castellar

“Life is about learning something new every single day.” Whether in work or play, these are the words Javier Castellar has always strived to live by. He kicked off his learning journey with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management before earning additional diplomas in computer engineering, computer systems networking and telecommunications.

Javier spent the earliest days of his career racking up hospitality experience in some of the premier establishments in London and Hong Kong. But he felt he still hadn’t found his true calling. Soon, however, he recognized his path lay in data science, programming and teaching. Today, Javier utilizes his fluency in several programming languages—including Python, R and more—to develop and analyze all types of applications while sharing his expertise with his students.

According to Javier, “Mathematics will be a linchpin for future advancements.” He believes the field’s influence is already evident in a spectrum of areas, from technology, education, healthcare, finance and security, to data analysis, environmental sustainability and even space exploration. As we continue to explore the potential of mathematics in problem-solving in various domains, its power to reshape our collective future will only continue to grow.

Javier describes mathematics as a versatile field with a “foundational role in many critical areas.” Therefore, its training must be dynamic to stay responsive to the fast changes in the landscape. For instance, the rise of big data and advanced technologies means students of the Bachelor in Applied Mathematics get to future-proof their skills with rigorous courses in artificial intelligence, machine learning and data analytics. “Students learn how to apply machine learning algorithms and extract meaningful insights from data,” Javier explains.

As we move toward a more digital, globalized world, this talented instructor feels that the practical competencies gained in the Bachelor in Applied Mathematics are vital in the search for innovative solutions to modern issues. “An applied mathematics degree equips students with the mathematical tools and analytical skills necessary to tackle real-world challenges in various industries.” This is especially true when tackling optimization, data analytics and more general problem-solving within an engineering context.

Javier explains that with such a wide, relevant skill set, graduates of the Bachelor in Applied Mathematics can pursue a range of career paths across many different sectors, including:

Quality Engineering and Management: Develop quality control procedures, perform statistical analysis and implement continuous improvement strategies to ensure and improve the quality of products and processes.

Data Analytics and Business Intelligence: Analyze business operations, trends and patterns to guide strategic decisions in roles focused on data analysis, business intelligence and data-driven decision-making.

Financial Analysis and Planning: Work in financial analysis, budgeting and cost management to forecast budgets, analyze financial data and optimize financial processes for organizations.

Research and Development (R&D): Contribute to the development and improvement of products, processes and technologies in the R&D departments of today’s top companies.

Entrepreneurship and Startups: Start a business or join a startup to optimize operations, streamline processes and drive efficiency in these ventures.

“The Bachelor in Applied Mathematics is important because it equips individuals with versatile skills and knowledge essential for success in today's data-centric, technology-driven and problem-solving-oriented world,” says Javier. Any student who wants to drive sustainable and meaningful change within their own sphere of influence may find the right fit here.