Data Science

Simulation & Modeling

Storytelling

Hello! I'm Joe Gambino, a data scientist, product designer, and public transit enthusiast. For the past six years, I was a data scientist at IDEO, an international product design consultancy, where I led projects and developed a particular interest in storytelling through simulation.

Before that, I was a mechanical engineer working in manufacturing and product design. So whether it’s machine learning or injection molding, throughout my career I’ve been one of the engineers building the product who can act as a translator to those focused on understanding the users or building the business.

A portrait by Rob Bratney

I started my career in manufacturing and machine shops, with a focus on injection molding. While the lead product designer at a dental tools start-up, I built out the consulting arm of our company by helping other early-stage start-ups craft their first prototypes. I pivoted to data science because I missed coding and am lucky to have landed at IDEO, where I didn’t have to leave the hands-on prototyping behind.

At IDEO, I worked in all manners of data science and design, but became particularly known for my use of simulations as storytelling. I’m most proud of my traffic simulation for a fast-food client and a fictional song contest for a professional awards organization. I am also quite passionate about civic issues; below you will see that in my personal work, I have a particular interest in public transit.

Presenting to a colleague over Zoom
Relaxing after work!
Reviewing basic matrix multiplication
My profile photo on Slack

I’m happiest when building things, so I usually have one or two side projects going on, such as using this site to learn web dev. Recently, I’ve been quite fascinated with cities – at how urban design and policy choices affect quality of life. Below are my favorites of those explorations.

Whether I’m leading teams or getting into the weeds of an algorithm, the most rewarding aspect of work is always the camaraderie and relationships forged through teamwork. As such, I crave an in-person environment and pride myself on building and prioritizing fun, healthy, and supportive office communities.

I recently left IDEO to move to the Netherlands. I’m staying in Leiden at the moment, and am actively on the job hunt. If you’d like to meet, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.