Diversity in Data Science: Meet Porsche Adams

Viridien data geoscientist shares her career journey and how the community of women in data science supports growth and success

Some people complain that their work environment is like a circus. But for Viridien data geoscientist Porsche Adams, she wouldn’t want it any other way. When she’s not extracting, transforming and modifying geoscience data, Porsche can be found hiking in outcrops, practicing aerial acrobatics or perfecting an elaborate cosplay look. We caught up with Porsche to hear how diversity in ideas, interests and backgrounds brings a rich and rewarding life in and out of work.

What led you to pursue a career in data geoscience?

I started my career in geology back in Las Vegas, when I went back to school to study earth sciences after a career in human resources. I really loved the rock aspects of it, so I transferred to the University of Boulder in Colorado and got a Bachelor’s degree in geology. It was there that I developed a real interest in subsurface fluids and pressures and began developing my coding skills. I got into 3D printing working in the Mathematics department, where I built manipulatives for the calculus series — physical objects that students use to learn about calculus, which required some coding.

I then pursued a Master’s degree in petroleum geoscience at Imperial College London. My thesis focused on using deep-learning neural networks to address issues in the North Sea around subsurface pressure and compartmentalization of reservoirs.

Porsche earned her Master’s degree at Imperial College London.

After graduation, I saw the job advert for a data geoscientist at Viridien Data Hub. It seemed perfect because it combined data aspects like coding, which I was getting into, and the geology background I already had. I’ve been with Viridien Data Hub now for about 14 months. 

What does a typical day look like for you? 

A day in my life starts with coffee. Lots of coffee. My team has a check-in meeting to unpack what we’re tackling that week. Then, it’s on to planning and writing scripts before turning to data extraction. 

Knowing what to extract requires some geology knowledge, but my background really comes in during QC — understanding the data, where it will live in the database and how it will be used. 

What have been some of your most impactful projects? 

My first Data Hub project in Brazil combined traditional reservoir geology, seismic interpretation and reservoir engineering data extraction. The geologists wanted to interpret the horizons and faults in the subsurface. I met so many people on the team through this project, which was fun. 

Viridien Data Hub really lets you play to your strengths. I am a data scientist and geologist, but I’m also quite creative and like to interact with people, which is where my side projects come in. I designed the hoodies for Viridien Data Hub, which all the team wear. I also make project badges, like NASA does, that team members can collect, stick on their laptops, put on profiles or use in slides. They’re great conversation starters. 

How has your experience been with the Women in Data Science (WiDS) community? 

My first real experience was at university. The pandemic hit while I was studying at Imperial, so there wasn’t a lot of in-person interaction. Instead, we formed a group chat of all the women in the course so we could discuss course issues. 

My experience with the global WiDS community has been great. There are regional workshops and Datathon challenges that tackle different issues and encourage collaboration. 

It fosters an atmosphere of inclusion and learning in a field where women are underrepresented. This helps show younger girls what’s possible and also helps women already in the field feel like they belong, breaking down any imposter syndrome. 

What else do you like to do you in your spare time? 

I have a lot of hobbies that keep me busy. I’m originally from San Diego, California, and I enjoy most outdoor pursuits, including skateboarding, surfing and hiking. I’m also a keen bodybuilder, often waking up at 4 a.m. for weightlifting. Finally, I also do aerial acrobatics with fabric silks, training after work at local classes and even the park.

Porsche’s hobbies include (from left to right) hiking, exploring geological formations, performing aerial acrobatics and cosplaying.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 

I’d love to develop more machine learning expertise. The artificial intelligence and ML aspects of data really fascinate me. I’d also love the opportunity to continue to share my knowledge with others, going into the community and speaking to young women about this career pathway. 
 

Find out more about our expert data transformation services here
Watch Porsche’s webinar: ‘Why data QA/QC is critical for subsurface decisions’ here
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