How To Get Hired As A Data Engineer - w/ Sam
Everyone wants to be a Data Scientist, but the real jobs (and the big money) are in Data Engineering.
In this episode, we sit down with Sam LaFell, a Solutions Architect at Snowflake who transitioned from a complete non-tech background (Communications) into one of the most technical roles in the industry.
If you are trying to break into data but are intimidated by coding, or if you are confused about the difference between a Data Analyst, Data Scientist, and Data Engineer, this conversation is your roadmap. Sam breaks down exactly how he taught himself Python and SQL, why you don't need a Computer Science degree to get hired, and the one specific portfolio project that will get you noticed by recruiters.
We also dive deep into the modern data stack: What tools do you actually need to learn in 2025? Is AI going to replace Data Engineers? And what does a "Solutions Architect" actually do all day?
🚀 In this video, we cover:• The "Big 3" Explained: Data Science vs. Analytics vs. Engineering.• Non-Tech to Tech: How to switch careers without a CS Degree.• The "Golden" Project: A step-by-step idea for a portfolio project that gets you hired.• Resume Keywords: The exact tools (Snowflake, SQL, Python) you need to list.• Career Growth: Moving from Engineer to Solutions Architect.• AI & Automation: Why Data Engineering is (mostly) future-proof.
👇 Timestamps:00:00 Background + Introduction01:39 Sam's Hot Take on Data Engineering03:26 The Big 3: Data Science vs. Analytics vs. Engineering06:48 The Lifecycle of Data Pipelines (Explained Simply)08:12 Why pipelines break & why you are needed11:36 Switching to Tech from a Communications Background16:21 Is a Masters in Analytics worth it?17:15 Landing the first Data Engineering Role19:21 Teaching yourself Python from scratch21:13 WHY choose Data Engineering over Data Science?24:26 The exact Tech Stack you need to learn26:03 Example of a GOOD Data Engineering Project28:36 BUILD THIS PROJECT TO GET HIRED33:36 Must-Know Tools for your Resume35:13 What is a Solutions Architect? (Snowflake Role)38:52 Why Storytelling is a technical skill40:31 Will AI replace Data Engineers?43:21 Outro + Gratitude
🔗 Connect with Sam:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samlafell/
About the Podcast:We explore the real stories behind high-agency individuals—from self-taught engineers to artists—who are just a few steps ahead in the journey. We don't sell you "lottery ticket" success stories; we show you the practical first steps so you can find your own way forward.
#DataEngineering #DataScience #Snowflake #Python #SQL #CareerSwitch #TechCareers #SelfTaughtDeveloper #SolutionsArchitect #BigData #TechResume #CodingBootcamp
