Data Analytics – Is It the Path for You?
- Jun 20
- 4 min read
At Untapped Potential, we believe in aligning your next chapter with your strengths, interests, and the flexibility your life demands. If you're contemplating a return to paid work after caregiving or a career break, Data Analytics is one of the most promising—and accessible—paths you can consider. Now, wouldn't it be great to have a step-by-step guide?
What is Data Analytics?
Put simply, data analytics is the process of turning raw information into actionable insight. It involves spotting patterns, identifying trends, and helping businesses make smarter decisions. Data analytics sits at the intersection of logic, curiosity, and problem-solving—skills we know so many of our returners naturally possess.
Whether you're reviewing numbers on a school budget or managing schedules for a busy household, you may already be thinking analytically. With a little upskilling, these everyday strengths can translate into in-demand technical roles.
Why Now? Why You?
We’re living in a data-driven world. From healthcare to retail, logistics to education, companies are gathering data faster than they can make sense of it. That’s where you come in.
As of mid-2025, there are more than 120,000 open roles in data analytics and related fields in the U.S. (Indeed, LinkedIn).
Demand continues to outpace supply—employers are actively seeking candidates who bring both technical aptitude and real-world perspective.
Industry growth is projected at a CAGR of 27.4% through 2028, fueled by AI adoption, automation, and digital transformation.
We often say: now is not just a good time to return—it’s the best time.
Leveraging Your Transferrable Skills
You may not have a technical title on your résumé—but that doesn’t mean you don’t already have what it takes. Data analytics isn’t just about numbers; it’s about organizing, communicating, and finding meaning in complexity. Sound familiar?
Here are a few transferrable skills we see in our candidates every day:
Organization: Whether managing your household or leading PTA committees, your ability to prioritize and systematize directly applies to structuring data and managing projects.
Attention to Detail: Spotting inconsistencies in spreadsheets or catching that one missing permission slip? That’s the same meticulous eye needed for cleaning data and interpreting results accurately.
Collaboration & Communication: You’ve navigated teachers, doctors, volunteers, and family dynamics. These people skills are invaluable when presenting data to stakeholders or working on cross-functional teams.
At UNTAPPED POTENTIAL, we value the whole person—not just the job title. Our Pledging Partner companies do too.
How is Data Analytics Applied?
Data analytics roles can range from entry-level data entry to sophisticated modeling and predictive analytics. Here’s a snapshot of the typical process:
Data Mining: Pulling patterns from messy sources like text files, surveys, or sensor data.
ETL (Extract, Transform, Load): Preparing data for use—just like organizing your family calendar.
Data Management: Building and maintaining systems (like SQL databases) so others can access clean, usable data.
Statistical Analysis: Using tools like Python or R to interpret trends and model outcomes.
Data Presentation: Storytelling with visuals. Think dashboards, charts, or infographics that make complex ideas digestible for business leaders.
What Skills Would You Need?
You don’t need to be a tech whiz—just open to learning. Many returners pursue short-term certifications or online bootcamps that fit around caregiving schedules. Some core tools include:
Python – for analysis and automation
SQL – for organizing and querying data
Tableau or Power BI – for building dashboards
Excel – still the unsung hero of many analytics teams!
What Roles Are Out There?
You can bring your analytical eye into roles across industries, with flexibility options growing every year. Some examples:
Data Analyst
Business Intelligence Analyst
Healthcare Data Analyst
Marketing Analyst
Operations or Logistics Analyst
Data Engineer
Project Manager with a data focus
Data Analytics Consultant
What Can You Earn?
Data analytics roles are well-compensated:
Entry-level or returning analysts: $70K–$90K
Mid-level analysts: $90K–$110K
Senior data professionals: $120K+
Salaries vary by location, industry, and your own comfort with technical tools—but the trajectory is strong.
Take Action – skillUP!
Ready to dip your toe in? Join us for a free, in-person demonstration where you'll see the power of data visualization and analytics in action—no prior tech experience required!
📊 SkillUP with Visio + Power BI
Presented by Scott Helmers, Microsoft Visio MVP
📅 Tuesday, June 24
🕞 3:30pm – 5:00pm
📍 Avon Public Library
281 Country Club Rd, Avon, CT 06001
RSVP by emailing Susan (susan@sbacoach.com)
In this LIVE demo, Scott will show you how to add Visio to Power BI Reports.*
*Never heard of Power BI? No worries - attend anyways. Part of your transition is through osmosis. Exposure to the jargon of the #workplace is necessary as a 1st step to your #returntowork journey.
You'll gain hands-on insight into how simple visuals and data tools can turn complex information into powerful business decisions. Events like this are a great way to reconnect with your professional self in a supportive, real-world setting. Consider #networking with those in this industry by joining their LinkedIN Community.
Can't make the date? location? Check out this short course or browse this tutorial from Microsoft.
