Why Python?
Over the past 30 years, Python has been growing in popularity and relevance within our workforce, particularly with the increasing demand for data-driven decision-making. This popular high-level programming language is simple and versatile, making it a great language for beginners and experts from any field or industry. For those interested in advancing their career in the field of data science and AI, Python's powerful libraries and frameworks like Pandas, NumPy, and SciPy, make data manipulation and analysis easier and more efficient.
Join this free workshop on September 2, 2026 from 12 - 1 p.m. ET to discover the essential functions of Python for data science and AI — live, online, and open to all skill levels.
What you'll learn:
- Understand the basics of Python, including how it can be leveraged for data science and AI tools and techniques.
- Explore key Python features and applications.
- Receive a free demonstration on the basics of Python.
- See how a structured learning path — from Python I to Python 2 to the Data Science Certificate — can build real, job-ready skills.
You'll also hear about WatSPEED's Python 1 and Python 2 courses and better understand how they can prepare you for the Data Science Certificate program.
Not sure which course is right for you?
New to programming? Start with Python I — no coding experience required.
Already comfortable with the basics? Advance your skills in Python 2: Data Science and AI Applications, where you'll apply Python to real data science, machine learning, and automation
problems.
Your workshop speaker
Carmen Bruni
Associate Professor, Teaching Stream, Cheriton School of Computer Science | Program Author and Instructor, WatSPEED
Dr. Carmen Bruni is a faculty member at the University of Waterloo, David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science. Before starting at Waterloo in 2015, he obtained his PhD. in Mathematics from the University of British Columbia. He completed his undergraduate and master’s degrees at Waterloo in Computer Science and Pure Mathematics.
From 2015 to 2017, he worked with Waterloo’s Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing. Since then, he has been teaching in the School of Computer Science. Dr. Bruni has received numerous awards for teaching excellence, including a prestigious Killam Graduate Teaching Award in 2013.
His current research interests are in computer science, mathematics, education, and pedagogy.
Related programs and courses
Register to attend the workshop!
Don't miss on this opportunity to meet your technical course instructor, ask questions, and learn more about what makes this innovative program so unique.
Questions? Let's chat!
Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. ET
Want to learn python?
Check out our python courses for professionals!
Explore the Data Science Certificate
See how Python learning can support your next step toward applied data science and analytics skills.
Is this workshop free?
Yes. This is a complimentary online workshop offered by WatSPEED at the University
of Waterloo.
Who should attend this workshop?
This session is designed for beginners, working professionals, and lifelong learners
who want to better understand Python and how it can support data-related work.
Do I need prior coding experience?
No prior coding experience is required. This workshop is intended to help participants
discover the essential functions of Python for data science.
What will I learn in this session?
You’ll explore Python basics, key features and applications, and see how Python can
be leveraged for data science and AI tools and techniques.
Will there be a live demonstration?
Yes. Participants will receive a free demonstration on the basics of Python.
How long is the workshop?
The workshop runs for approximately 60 minutes, from 12 to 1 p.m. ET on September
2, 2026.
Will there be a Q&A?
Yes. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the
instructor and program pathways.
How do I attend?
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with the Zoom access details
for the event.
Is this workshop related to a WatSPEED course or program?
Yes. The session connects to WatSPEED’s Python I, Python 2: Data Science and AI Applications, and the Data Science Certificate program.
Why learn Python for data science?
Python is widely used for data analysis, automation, and machine learning because
it is accessible, versatile, and supported by powerful libraries such as Pandas, NumPy,
and SciPy.
What is the difference between Python I and Python 2: Data Science and AI Applications?
Python I is built for complete beginners and covers foundational programming concepts,
functions, and data structures — no coding experience required. Python 2 is designed
for learners who already have some Python experience and want to apply it to data
science, machine learning, automation, and web development.
Is Python good for a career in AI?
Yes. Python is the primary language used to build, train, and deploy AI and machine
learning models, and is a foundational skill for roles in data science, machine learning
engineering, and AI product development.
How long does it take to learn Python for data science?
Most learners build foundational Python skills within a few weeks through a structured
course. WatSPEED's Python I and Python 2 courses are designed to take learners from
no experience to applied data science and AI skills through a clear, guided pathway.
Does attending this workshop lead to a certificate?
The workshop is a free introductory session and does not itself carry a certificate.
It is designed to prepare attendees for WatSPEED’s certificate-track courses, including
Python I, Python 2, and the Data Science Certificate program.
Do I need to install any software before the workshop?
No installation is required to attend the live workshop. Any software or setup needed
for the Python I or Python 2 courses will be provided in course onboarding materials.