10 strong data influencers – November 2025, who are well-known in data science, analytics, AI, and data strategy, that operate from, and known to operate in the US.
🔟 Data Influencers to Follow in 2026
If you’re looking to keep up with the fastest-moving ideas in data science, AI, analytics, and data strategy, these 10 influencers consistently deliver insight, clarity, and inspiration.
1. Cassie Kozyrkov
Website: https://kozyrkov.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassie-kozyrkov/
Bio: Former Chief Decision Scientist at Google and a leading voice in “decision intelligence.” Cassie blends data science with behavioural science to help organizations make smarter, evidence-based decisions. Known for making complex topics accessible to non-technical audiences.
2. Monica Rogati
Website: https://www.monicarogati.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicarogati/
Bio: A data leader best known for creating the Data Science Hierarchy of Needs. Former VP of Data at Jawbone and an early LinkedIn data scientist. Focuses on ML, data strategy, and helping organizations build sustainable data capabilities.
3. Joe Caserta
Website: https://www.caserta.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joecaserta/
Bio: Founder of Caserta, an NYC-based data and analytics consulting firm. Specializes in data architecture, engineering, and enterprise transformation. Highly regarded for hands-on expertise and executive-level education.
4. Kirk Borne
Website: https://www.kirkborne.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirkdborne/
Bio: One of the most influential figures in big data and data science. Former NASA astrophysicist and Principal Data Scientist at Booz Allen. Popular for his prolific social presence and talent for explaining emerging tech trends.
5. Bernard Marr
Website: https://www.bernardmarr.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernardmarr/
Bio: Best-selling author and strategic consultant who bridges the gap between analytics and business impact. Writes extensively on data strategy, digital transformation, and the future of AI.
6. Doug Laney
Website: https://www.douglaney.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglaney/
Bio: Author of Infonomics and pioneer of the idea of treating data as an actual business asset. Former Gartner analyst and frequent speaker on data monetization, governance, and valuation.
7. Usama Fayyad
Website: https://www.usamafayyad.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/usamafayyad/
Bio: Foundational figure in the development of data mining. Former Chief Data Officer at Yahoo! and founder of multiple data-centric organizations. Deep expertise in AI, data platforms, and enterprise analytics strategy.
8. Carla Gentry (“Data Nerd”)
Website: https://datainc.tech (her consulting brand)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlagentrydata/
Bio: A data scientist with decades of experience in analytics, segmentation, and statistical modelling. Highly engaged online, where she advocates for practical, business-first applications of data.
9. Hilary Mason
Website: https://hilarymason.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hmason/
Bio: Founder of Fast Forward Labs (acquired by Cloudera) and one of the most recognized voices in applied machine learning. Known for balancing innovation with responsible AI practices.
10. Ben Lorica
Website: https://www.benlorica.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benlorica/
Bio: Former Chief Data Scientist at O’Reilly Media and co-chair of major AI/ML conferences. Focuses on AI research, ML platforms, and scalable data architectures that enable next-gen analytics.
