I am a tinkerer, explorer, martial artist, cat enthusiast, Trekkie, marathon runner, a "learn by doing"-er.

Looking for a bio though? Look no more!

Political scientist turned coder, Lorena Mesa is a GitHub data engineer, Director & Chair of the Python Software Foundation, JOSS editor, and PyLadies Chicago co-organizer. Lorena's time at Obama for America and her subsequent graduate research required her to learn how to transform messy, incomplete data into intelligible analysis on topics like predicting Latinx voter behavior. It's this unique background in research and applied mathematics that drove Lorena to pursue a career in engineering and data science. One part activist, one part Star Wars fanatic, and another part Trekkie, Lorena abides by the motto to "live long and prosper".

Want to connect?

I am open to discussion on topics of mutual interest such as:

  • Occupying an anti-racist mindset
  • Diversity and inclusion in technology
  • Education
  • Responsible technology and computer science

If that is of interest, you can find my Calendly availability below. Please note, if you are seeking consultation on specific work please use the proper Consultation - 30 minute appointment.

Still need more info?

I've been profiled in a few pieces which you can find here.