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AI and data science hiring insights from recruiter-led fireside chats featuring Blue Signal Search Director of AI Strategy & Recruiting Brent Stokes

AI and Data Science Hiring Insights from Recruiter Conversations at Seattle University

January 13, 2026 by Taylor Capron

Last month, Blue Signal’s Director of AI Strategy & Recruiting, Brent Stokes, participated in two fireside chats hosted by Seattle University, offering a recruiter’s perspective on today’s AI and data science job market. These conversations explored what employers are hiring for, the skills that stand out, and how candidates can position themselves for success in competitive technical roles.

Conversation with an AI Recruiter

Featuring: Brent Stokes in conversation with Dr. Burkhard Englert, Program Director of Seattle University’s MS in Artificial Intelligence program.

This fireside chat focuses on how AI hiring is evolving across industries and what employers are prioritizing as AI adoption accelerates. The discussion covers:

  • Current trends in who is hiring for AI roles
  • The most in-demand AI positions employers are actively recruiting for
  • Technical and human skills that set candidates apart
  • Practical guidance for standing out in an AI-focused job search
  • Live Q&A with an AI recruiter

The conversation provides a real-world look at how AI talent is being evaluated beyond job descriptions and resumes.

AI Recruiting Solutions

Conversation with a Data Science Recruiter

Featuring: Brent Stokes in conversation with Ariana Mendible, PHD, Master of Science Data Science at Seattle University.

In this session, the focus shifts to data science hiring and how expectations are changing as organizations mature their data strategies. Topics include:

  • What companies are looking for in data science candidates today
  • Common skill gaps recruiters see in the market
  • How data science roles differ across industries and company sizes
  • Advice for early- and mid-career professionals navigating data-focused roles

This conversation highlights the importance of both technical depth and business context in modern data science careers.

Data Science Recruiting Solutions

Thank You to Seattle University

We’re grateful to Seattle University for hosting these fireside chats and creating space for meaningful conversations around AI and data science careers. Engaging directly with students and professionals who are exploring these fields is an important part of helping the next generation of talent understand how today’s technical job market really works.

If you have questions about career paths in AI or data science, hiring trends, or what employers are looking for in these roles, Brent Stokes and the team at Blue Signal Search are always happy to continue the conversation. You can reach out using the contact form below to connect with us directly.

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    Filed Under: Recruiter Tips Tagged With: ai careers, AI hiring insights, ai jobs, AI recruiting trends, AI talent, Artificial Intelligence Jobs, Data Science Careers, data science hiring insights, data science jobs, data science recruiting trends, data science skills, data science talent, hiring trends 2026, industry fireside chat, Recruiter Insights, STEM careers, tech hiring market, technical hiring, university career resources

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