Reviewed by: Lacey Muenstermann
Why data analytics jobs are in demand now + more Huntsville business news
Reading time: 4 minutes
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The increasing complexity of technology has generated new important roles for businesses, and data analysis certainly falls into that category. This month, we look at how data analytics has become in integral part of today’s business climate.
Also, catch up with some of the latest business news here in the Rocket City.
Demand for data analytics increasing in business
As companies continue to navigate the increasing quantity and complexity of data, the demand for analytics careers continues to steadily increase.
We spoke with Dr. Michael Floren, Assistant Professor of Data Analytics at the University of North Alabama’s Sanders College of Business & Technology to get insights on where the field of data analytics fits into the future of business.
Floren said multiple career opportunities exist for those wanting to go into data analytics professionally:
- Interested in general analytics? Try a traditional analyst or data analyst role.
- Big fan of deeper insights and more complex tools? Look for data scientist positions.
- The best of both worlds: As the field continues to grow, analysts specializing in both analytics and a content area are in demand.
Floren said descriptions within each of these titles can vary widely and recommends that those who are interested in a career in this field read job postings carefully.
Preparing for a career in data analytics
Floren said training for people entering this field largely depends on the niche they are targeting.
“For those considering data analytics generally, I’d highly recommend strong training in applied statistics (and the math background to approach this) and programming in multiple languages. For statistics, seek training that goes beyond traditional classroom experiences, both in explanation and in practice.”
Dr. Michael Floren, Assistant Professor of Data Analytics at UNA Sanders College of Business & Technology
Floren also suggests potential data analysts seek programs that pair theoretical explanations and work with actionable and context-specific interpretational practice, as well as those who are largely program-passed.
“Regarding programming, there are a variety of paths that one can take and I don’t believe that every person has to specialize in R, Python, VBA, SQL, SAS, JMP, and BI. I recommend training in Excel and SQL (common data storage that cover most situations), R or Python, then one of the others depending on your target niche. For the most general toolkit, I recommend Python and BI.”
Dr. Michael Floren, Assistant Professor of Data Analytics at UNA Sanders College of Business & Technology
Danny Windham named to HudsonAlpha Board of Directors
Just weeks after retiring from the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology (where he served as Chief Operating Officer from 2019-2025), Danny Windham was named the latest member of the HudsonAlpha Board of Directors.
Windham brings more than 25 years of leadership experience to HudsonAlpha’s Board, serving as President and COO of Adtran (2005-07) and CEO of Digium (2007-18).
He is actively involved in Huntsville’s entrepreneurial community as a mentor and board member, and has supported the development of multiple startups, including HudsonAlpha associate companies Discovery Life Sciences (formerly Conversant Bio) and Kailos Genetics.
Windham earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Mississippi State University — where he was named a Distinguished Engineering Fellow in 2001 — and earned his MBA from Florida Tech.
He is actively involved in community service, volunteering on multiple boards, including the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce, Biztech and Leadership Alabama.
He was also chairman of the Madison YMCA fundraising committee and a volunteer pilot for Angel Flight, a nonprofit organization that provides free air transportation for individuals with any legitimate, charitable or medically related need.
Unemployment rate in Alabama sees increase from a year ago
For January 2025, the unemployment rates in Alabama stood at 3.3 percent, which is an increase from January 2024’s rate of 2.9 percent. Locally, Madison County also saw a slight increase in unemployment, reporting a 2.9 percent rate compared to 2.6 percent in January 2024.
Here are the unemployment rates in Madison and surrounding in January 2025:
| Madison County | Jan. 2025: 2.9% | Dec. 2024: 2.7% | Jan. 2024: 2.6% |
| Morgan County | Jan. 2025: 2.9% | Dec. 2024: 2.6% | Jan. 2024: 2.6% |
| Limestone County | Jan. 2025: 2.8% | Dec. 2024: 2.7% | Jan. 2024: 2.4% |
| Marshall County | Jan. 2025: 2.8% | Dec. 2024: 2.7% | Jan. 2024: 2.6% |
| Lauderdale County | Jan. 2025: 3.6% | Dec. 2024: 3.3% | Jan. 2024: 3.4% |
Look for our monthly North Alabama business news roundup this time next month, brought to you by the University of North Alabama Sanders College of Business & Technology.
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