Featured Work
Selected projects and initiatives that showcase my work in AI, data science, and technology leadership.
Wyrd Studios
Building privacy-first AI that puts people first. Co-founder of an AI company focused on ethical AI development and user-centric design.
TPOT: Automated Machine Learning
Pioneered AutoML with TPOT, a Python tool that automatically optimizes machine learning pipelines using genetic programming. Built on scikit-learn, this 'Data Science Assistant' intelligently explores thousands of possible solutions for optimal results.
Optimal U.S. Road Trip
Used genetic algorithms to solve the traveling salesman problem, computing the most efficient road trip through all 50 U.S. states. This viral project achieved 13,699 miles of optimal driving and inspired global optimizations.
Women in STEM: The Data Story
Created an iconic visualization of gender distribution in U.S. college majors (1970-2012), exposing the 'ET gender gap' in Engineering & Technology. Sparked widespread discussion on gender equity in STEM education and careers.
Name Age Calculator
Interactive web tool that predicts age from names using Social Security baby name data and actuarial tables. Built on FiveThirtyEight's methodology, it reveals demographic patterns through everyday information.
Finding Waldo with Machine Learning
Applied genetic algorithms to find the optimal search strategy for Waldo in children's books. Analyzed 68 locations across volumes to create a scientifically-grounded approach to visual search problems.
Latest Posts
Recent insights on AI, data science, machine learning, and technology trends.
How to Choose the Right LLM for AI-Assisted Coding
Benchmark scores don't predict real-world AI coding performance. Here's how to actually choose the right model for your workflow.
The Three Phases of AI-Assisted Coding
Most developers skip straight to asking AI to write code. Here's the three-phase workflow that makes AI-assisted coding actually work.
3 AI Solutions That Actually Drive Business Value in 2025
Three proven AI solutions that consistently deliver measurable business value in 2025, with practical implementation strategies and real-world examples.
Key AI Technologies That Shaped 2024 and Are Driving Business Value in 2025
A practical guide for businesses on the key AI technologies from 2024 and emerging in 2025, detailing what they are, their importance, business utility, and limitations, all to help you make informed strategic decisions.
Your AI Coding Assistant Isn't Failing. Your Management Style Is.
Why dismissing AI coding tools might reveal more about your management style than the technology's capabilities.
How to beat the Original I.Q. Tester
Randy Olson shows you how to beat the Original I.Q. Tester during a trip down memory lane.
About Me
Turning complex data challenges into clear, actionable solutions.
AI Research & Innovation
My work focuses on developing AI systems that are not only technically sophisticated but also ethically sound and practically valuable. I specialize in evolutionary algorithms, machine learning optimization, and the intersection of data science with business strategy.
From Research to Reality
With experience ranging from academic research to strategic enterprise consulting, I bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI research and real-world business applications. My work has been featured in major publications and has helped organizations transform their data into competitive advantages.
Current Focus
As Co-Founder of Wyrd Studios, I'm building AI tools that prioritize user privacy and ethical considerations. I continue to push the boundaries of what's possible with data while ensuring responsible development practices.
Quick Facts
Areas of Expertise
Let's Connect
Interested in AI research, strategic technology guidance, or discussing the future of technology? I'd love to hear from you.
randal.s.olson@gmail.com
Connect professionally
GitHub
View my code
Professional Services
Looking for AI expertise, strategic guidance, or technical leadership? I'm available for select projects and collaborations.