If you’re a data science co-op student, BC’s AI and quantum computing ecosystem offers an opportunity to apply analytical skills to real-world problems. Whether you’re passionate about machine learning, big data, or quantum algorithms, this sector is where your skills can directly shape the future of health, security, and global competitiveness. With a 10-year target to double tech-sector employment to 400,000 jobs and grow economic value by 75%, this is a space where data scientists will be at the heart of innovation.
Why Data Science Matters Here
- 600+ AI companies in BC, most already generating revenue, rely on data scientists to build, train, and evaluate models.
- Quantum computing research creates new frontiers for data analysis, optimization, and cybersecurity.
- The sector’s growth means more demand for data-driven insights across industries like health care, agriculture, geospatial analytics, and defence.
Current Opportunities
Data science co-op students can expect to work on:
- AI in medicine: algorithms for cancer screening and drug discovery
- Geospatial analytics: satellite imagery processed with advanced AI to detect real-time environmental changes
- Cybersecurity: quantum-ready solutions that protect sensitive data
- Applied machine learning: predictive modelling for agriculture, legal services, and public health
Goals That Shape Your Career Path
BC’s strategy includes:
- Leading Canada in developing and testing AI and quantum use cases
- Expanding AI adoption in businesses, creating demand for data scientists who can translate insights into ROI
- Establishing a K-12 AI advisory committee, signaling long-term investment in data literacy and workforce development
- Doubling the size of the AI and quantum sectors, meaning more jobs for analysts, engineers, and researchers
Why It Matters for Data Science Students
For co-op and early-career data scientists, this growth means:
- Hands-on experience with large-scale datasets in health, agriculture, and defence
- Opportunities to design machine learning pipelines and optimize algorithms for real-world impact
- Exposure to quantum computing applications, where data science meets next-generation hardware
- A chance to contribute to projects with global reach, from drug discovery to climate resilience
The Bigger Picture
- 75% of AI companies in BC are already generating revenue, showing strong market traction.
- The AI sector is projected to grow at a 24.3% annual rate, reaching $2.64 billion GDP by 2031.
- Investments in the Quantum Algorithms Institute (QAI) and partnerships with universities and industry ensure data scientists will be central to advancing quantum readiness and AI innovation.
Reference
Copilot was used to make this summary of the report titled “Look West: Jobs and Prosperity for a Stronger BC and Canada” from the Government of BC’s Employment, business and economic development website.