William Elcock, PhD
Data Analyst
Saskatoon, SK
william@williamelcock.com
Profile
Data Analyst with 5+ years of experience translating complex datasets into clear, decision-ready insights for technical and non-technical stakeholders. Skilled in SQL, Python, and Tableau, with a proven track record building reproducible data pipelines, automating reporting cadences, and developing forecasting and statistical models. Experienced embedding with cross-functional teams to identify trends, surface risks, and build scalable analytical frameworks. PhD-level quantitative background paired with strong written and verbal communication skills, and a hands-on approach to building and solving technical problems from scratch.
Core Skills
SQL & Data Modelling
Complex SQL queries, large dataset analysis, data transformation & validation, dbt (familiar)
BI & Visualization
Tableau, matplotlib, data storytelling, dashboard development, executive reporting
Python & Analytics
pandas, NumPy, forecasting libraries, statistical modelling (Stan), Monte Carlo simulation
Data Engineering
ETL/ELT pipelines, MongoDB, Git, automated reporting workflows
Finance Analytics
Trend & variance analysis, forecasting models, operational reporting, stakeholder-facing insights
Platforms
Linux, macOS, Windows
Experience
Technical Writer (Data-Driven Content)
Sep 2016 – PresentComparitech / Privacy.net · Remote
- Analyzed product performance data, market trends, and financial metrics to produce data-supported technical content for a global audience.
- Translated complex datasets into clear narratives, identifying patterns and actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders.
Data Analyst / Researcher
Dec 2023 – May 2025University of Saskatchewan · Saskatoon, SK
- Served as embedded data partner to research leadership, building analytical frameworks and automated reporting cadences for stakeholder decision-making.
- Developed forecasting models in Python to predict crop yields from historical and environmental variables, reducing manual analysis time significantly.
- Built statistical models in Stan and Python to extract trends and uncertainty measures from large observational datasets.
- Created Tableau dashboards and written summaries to communicate findings to both technical researchers and non-technical stakeholders.
- Analyzed large soil-carbon datasets to surface environmental risk patterns and proactively flag anomalies for research leadership.
Data Analyst (PhD Research)
May 2018 – Dec 2023University of Saskatchewan · Saskatoon, SK
- Designed and maintained end-to-end data processing pipelines in Python to clean, transform, and analyze complex experimental datasets.
- Built reusable, scalable analytical workflows enabling consistent, reproducible analysis across large scientific datasets.
- Developed data visualizations and dashboards to communicate how parameter changes impacted outcomes, supporting cross-functional decisions.
- Applied Monte Carlo simulations to model risk scenarios and quantify uncertainty, delivering insights to interdisciplinary audiences.
- Presented technical findings in clear, actionable reports and presentations tailored to non-technical stakeholders.
Data Analyst (MSc Research)
Sep 2015 – Dec 2017University of Saskatchewan · Saskatoon, SK
- Automated data collection and analysis pipelines for device characterization using Python, significantly reducing manual processing time.
- Performed statistical analysis on performance data to identify efficiency trends and surface key insights for research teams.
- Built reproducible analytical workflows that increased team speed-to-insight and reduced reporting overhead.
Technical Projects
DIY E-Bike Conversion
Published in Popular Science ↗- Designed and built a fully functional electric bike from a standard bicycle, integrating a motor, battery pack with BMS, and control electronics — achieving a commercial-comparable result for approximately $350.
- Planned and executed a 12–14 hour hardware project end-to-end: component selection, electrical system design, motor mounting, and wiring.
- Documented the full build process in a technical guide published by Popular Science, translating complex engineering decisions into clear, accessible instructions.
3D-Printed Mechanical Keyboard
Published in Popular Science ↗- Designed and built a custom 65% mechanical keyboard from scratch, including a 3D-printed case, soldered switch matrix, and programmed microcontroller firmware.
- Made deliberate hardware and component trade-off decisions to optimize cost, ergonomics, and performance — reflecting the same analytical framing used when designing data systems.
- Published step-by-step technical documentation in Popular Science, demonstrating ability to communicate precise technical processes to non-specialist readers.
Leadership & Communication
President, CBA Toastmasters Club
Feb 2022 – PresentSaskatoon, SK
- Lead and coordinate a professional development organization, strengthening communication, presentation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Education & Certifications
Google Data Analytics Certificate
January 2026
PhD, Physics & Engineering Physics
University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK
2018 – 2023
MSc, Physics & Engineering Physics
University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK
2015 – 2017