From Physics Teacher to Research Data Analyst: Tek’s career change

His journey shows that a career change isn’t about certainty. It’s about curiosity, visibility and saying yes to opportunities that stretch you.

Before stepping into data, Tek spent years guiding students through equations and experiments. He loved teaching, but he wanted to use his analytical strengths in a new way in a field where data, business and problem-solving intersected. That decision led him to study a Master of Business Information Systems.

He wasn’t looking for a large institution where he might disappear into the crowd. He wanted a place where he could be listened, build real connections and make an impact. And that’s exactly what he found at our Wakefield campus.

Learning through live industry project with Suncorp

Tek immersed himself in opportunities beyond the classroom by serving on the Student Representative Council (SRC), representing Torrens University in competitions and hackathons. He also had an active participation in live industry project like Recycle for Change, Doing Good Rewards, Giverly and Desi Pakwaan E-commerce website project as a part of his course.

Each experience helped him grow, connect with people from diverse backgrounds and apply what he was learning to real business challenges.

The turning point was Project Optiwork, a collaboration between Torrens University and Suncorp Group, one of Australia’s largest financial services groups. Tek’s team was tasked with improving how the company managed resource supply and demand, a process previously done manually. They analysed the workflow, identified inefficiencies and recommended changes to improve visibility and decision-making.

His performance on Optiwork opened doors. It led to a casual role in the university library, where he applied his skills in a real-world setting and proved what he could do. When he graduated, that experience evolved into a full-time position as a Research Data Analyst. Now he spends his days uncovering insights and helping turn them into meaningful action, a role that blends his love of problem-solving with the impact of data-driven decision-making.

One of the most valuable lessons Tek took from studying was learning to work with an agile mindset. Before, he chased perfection before delivering anything. He learned to start small, seek feedback and improve continuously. That shift changed the way he works, whether analysing datasets, designing solutions or collaborating on projects, he focuses on process, people and impact first, then delivers iteratively.

Core skills he learnt include:

• Systems analysis and design: Understanding business needs and shaping effective IT solutions
• Data management and analytics: Modelling, organising, and analysing data for better decision-making
• Business strategy and process: Aligning technology with strategic goals and operational improvement
• Requirements engineering: Defining and maintaining clear, actionable system requirements
• Cloud and modern infrastructure: Working with cloud platforms, microservices, and modern architectures
• Ethical decision-making: Applying responsible, ethical judgement in technology use

Tek’s journey from teacher to data professional wasn’t linear. It was shaped by hard work, visibility and a willingness to say yes to opportunities. His advice to students and graduates is simple:

“Don’t wait for the perfect role. Get involved, share your work and let curiosity guide you. The path may surprise you, but it will shape you in ways you can’t yet imagine. ”