Hayden Herstrom
Machine Learning Engineer
An analytically minded professional combining biochemistry foundations with advanced data science and machine learning expertise. Currently pursuing a Master's in Business Analytics at the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management, specializing in Artificial Intelligence in Business. Focused on building scalable ML pipelines, deploying predictive models, and leveraging big data technologies to solve complex business problems.
A driven learner who adds value by:
- Building end-to-end ML pipelines using Python, Spark, and cloud platforms (AWS SageMaker)
- Applying predictive modeling techniques including deep learning, ensemble methods, and neural networks
- Combining scientific rigor from biochemistry training with modern data engineering practices
Experience
Student Consultant
Carlson Analytics Lab
Working on client-facing analytics projects, applying machine learning and data science techniques to solve real business problems.
Delivered actionable insights to Central Specialties Inc. involving real-world bidding data and contractor cost prediction.
Served as Student Lead for the Analytics for Good Hackathon, planning student activities, prizes, and logistics.
Customer Service & Billing Representative
Zimmer Biomet Davis
Leveraged programming expertise to streamline department workflow and directed extensive automation of billing and invoicing processes. Automation led to payroll expense reductions of 25%. Managed inventory and facilitated communications between customers and sales teams.
Lab Technician
Cargill Animal Nutrition
Performed near-infrared spectroscopy analysis of animal feed for nutrient content. Maintained lab environment and instrumentation, conducted routine calibration and quality assurance procedures.
Server & Hospitality Professional
Various Establishments
Built extensive experience in fast-paced, high-pressure environments requiring multitasking, customer service excellence, and team collaboration. Demonstrated wine expertise at fine dining establishment contributing to $13M annual revenue. Employee of the Month twice at Texas Roadhouse and manager at Maui Wowi.
6Smith, Birch's on the Lake, Texas Roadhouse, Maui Wowi.
Results
ML Pipeline Development
Building end-to-end machine learning pipelines using Apache Spark, AWS SageMaker, and MLOps best practices. Hands-on experience with model training, evaluation, and deployment at scale.
Predictive Analytics
Applying advanced predictive modeling techniques including decision trees, neural networks, deep learning, and ensemble methods using scikit-learn, Keras, and TensorFlow.
Algorithmic Trading System
Developed automated trading algorithm integrating real-time market data, quantitative analysis, and automated execution via Schwab API with risk management controls.
Data Engineering
Experience with big data technologies including Hadoop, Hive, and Spark SQL. Built automated web scrapers and data pipelines for client analytics projects.
LLM-Powered Process Automation
Leveraged Large Language Models combined with OCR technology to automate consigned item billing processes, dramatically reducing manual data entry. Developed custom JavaScript Chrome extensions for internal use to bridge web platforms and enable seamless workflow automation.
Expertise
Machine Learning
scikit-learn, TensorFlow, Keras, Neural Networks, Deep Learning, Ensemble Methods
Big Data Technologies
Apache Spark, Hadoop, Hive, Spark SQL, Spark ML, Spark Streaming
Cloud & MLOps
AWS SageMaker, AWS Bedrock, Cloud Computing, ML Pipelines, Model Deployment
Programming
Python, R, SQL, C, Java, NumPy, pandas, Web Development (Node.js, Express)
Data Analysis
Exploratory Data Analysis, Data Mining, Statistical Modeling, Causal Inference
Databases
MySQL, SQL Server, Database Design, Query Optimization, Data Warehousing
Experimentation
A/B Testing, Design of Experiments, Difference-in-Differences, Regression Discontinuity
Domain Knowledge
Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Pharmacology, Laboratory Techniques, Scientific Method
Finance
FINRA SIE Certified, Algorithmic Trading, Quantitative Finance, Financial Modeling
Education
Master of Science in Business Analytics
Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota
Expected May 2026
- Artificial Intelligence in Business Track
- Wedum Centennial Scholarship Recipient
Relevant Coursework:
- Predictive Analytics (ML, Deep Learning, TensorFlow, Keras)
- Big Data Analytics (Spark, Hadoop, AWS, MLOps)
- Programming for Data Science (Python, NumPy, pandas)
- Data Management & Databases (SQL, Data Warehousing)
- Exploratory Data Analytics (Data Mining, Visualization)
- Causal Inference via Econometrics and Experimentation
Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
College of Biological Sciences, University of Minnesota
2024
- Minor in Computer Science
- Multiple Merit-Based Scholarships
Relevant Coursework:
- Algorithms and Data Structures
- Machine Architecture and Organization (C Programming)
- Internet Programming
- Bioinformatics
- Pharmacology & Cell Biology
Study Abroad
University of Oslo, Norway
Fall 2022
- International academic experience
- Marine Biology, Catalytic Chemistry, Developmental Biology
Anoka High School
2020
- 33 ACT. PSEO Student, Anoka Ramsey Community College Dean's List. GPA 4.07/4.00.
Projects
Strang's Four Fundamental Subspaces Visualizer
An interactive 3D visualization of the four fundamental subspaces of a matrix, built as an homage to Gilbert Strang and his MIT 18.06 Linear Algebra course. Strang's ability to make the abstract feel intuitive is something I deeply admire. His lectures turned linear algebra from a collection of rules into a living, geometric story. This tool lets you enter any 3x3matrix and instantly see the column space, null space, row space, and left null space rendered in 3D, complete with orthogonal complement relationships. Built with Three.js, Node.js, and math.js.
Launch VisualizerMeet Hayden
Interests
Q & A
Why machine learning engineering?
My path to ML engineering is unique - I started in biochemistry, fascinated by the molecular machinery of life. Through my studies, I discovered that biological systems, financial markets, and big data systems share a fundamental similarity: they are all complex adaptive systems governed by intricate feedback loops and emergent behaviors. The analytical thinking required for scientific research translates perfectly to building intelligent systems that can navigate this complexity. Machine learning allows me to apply the same systematic, hypothesis-driven approach I learned in the lab to create scalable solutions that can impact millions of people.
What sets you apart from other candidates?
My biochemistry background gives me a unique perspective on problem-solving. I understand both the biological domain and the technical implementation, making me especially suited for ML applications in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences. Additionally, my FINRA SIE certification and algorithmic trading experience demonstrate that I can apply ML in high-stakes, regulated environments. I'm not just interested in building models - I'm interested in deploying them to solve real problems.
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Earning my Eagle Scout rank taught me the value of persistence, leadership, and completing complex projects. More recently, building a fully automated algorithmic trading system from scratch - integrating real-time data feeds, quantitative analysis, and automated execution with risk management - demonstrated that I can take a complex ML project from concept to production.
Certifications & Honors
FINRA Securities Industry Essentials (SIE)
March 2025
President, UMN Biotech & Finance Club
2025-2026
American Mensa Member
2025
Eagle Scout
BSA Troop 3204, Anoka, MN
Wallin Education Partners Enterprise Scholar
Wedum Centennial Scholar
Bill & Carol Riley Scholar
Iron Range Scholar
Dean's List
Anoka Ramsey Community College, 2020
Contact
herst017[at]umn.edu
Location
Twin Cities, Minnesota
GitHub
github.com/Hayden1629Website
herstrom.comLet's Connect
I'm actively seeking machine learning engineering opportunities starting in August 2026 or later, where I can apply my unique combination of scientific training and technical skills. Open to roles in ML engineering, data science, and related fields.
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