Q & A with Yiannis Achilleos, Graduate Data Engineer

Q & A with Yiannis Achilleos, Graduate Data Engineer

We sat down with Yiannis, Graduate Data Engineer, to find out what his day-to-day life looks like, what significant milestones he has had at Vortexa, and what he really thinks of our company culture…

28 March, 2025
Jessica Irvin
Jessica Irvin, VP People & Operations

Yiannis grew up on the island of Cyprus. He works as a Data Engineer at Vortexa, using advanced ML models and data insights to solve challenging problems, and is responsible for maintaining and improving data pipelines to ensure data and output quality.

Prior to joining Vortexa, Yiannis studied Mathematics, Statistics, and Data Science at University, driven by an interest in understanding why and how things work, and how information can be used to structure things and make more reliable decisions. This passion truly came to life during his time with a VC firm, where he was thrilled to leverage data and ML modelling to predict entrepreneurial success.

Fun fact: Up until the age of 18 Yiannis was planning to become a professional athlete.

We wanted to find out what inspired Yiannis to join Vortexa, what some of his biggest milestones have been to date and what day-to-day life really looks like for the Graduate Data Engineer…

What inspired you to join Vortexa? 

After graduating, my aim was to find a place exactly like Vortexa—a place with an exceptional niche, where innovation, teamwork, and bright minds meet. I wanted to join a data-driven team where I could contribute and develop my knowledge. During my search, I found Vortexa and immediately felt that this was the place for me…

What would you say is the most interesting aspect of your role? 

Modelling and solving real world problems by leveraging cutting edge technologies and advanced modelling structures. Furthermore, the fact that the whole process is a fast paced continuous learning process.

After graduating, my aim was to find a place exactly like Vortexa—a place with an exceptional niche, where innovation, teamwork, and bright minds meet.
What have been some significant milestone moments for you at Vortexa? 

My personal most significant milestone was during my fourth month within the company, where I identified LNG vessels undergoing maintenance in various regions worldwide by improving our data pipeline. This enhancement led to immediate client satisfaction, which was incredibly rewarding for me. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such positive client outcomes.

What does day-to-day life look like for you as a Graduate Data Engineer?  

No day is the same at Vortexa! The only thing that is the same, are the first ten minutes of the day for setting up my working environment, reading my emails, and creating my roadmap for the day. After that, I collaborate with other data scientists and engineers to address issues, improve  processes, add new features, and find innovative solutions to complex problems. This dynamic environment keeps everyone engaged and excited, as each day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn and develop.

What key qualities make a Graduate Data Engineer successful? 

I would say that the most important thing is to love problem solving, along with the ability to learn quickly and effectively whilst constantly seeking new knowledge. Attention to detail is essential to ensure data quality and accuracy, while collaboration with other team members is key to successful project outcomes. Finally, adaptability and openness to new tools, technologies, and methodologies help in staying current and effective in the ever-evolving industry of tech.

The culture at Vortexa is dynamic, fast-paced, and collaborative. Innovation thrives here, with new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow every day.
How would you describe the culture at Vortexa? 

The culture at Vortexa is dynamic, fast-paced, and collaborative. Innovation thrives here, with new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow every day. The team is incredibly driven and supportive, always willing to help each other, emphasising teamwork and continuous improvement. We always work together to address issues, improve processes, and find innovative solutions to complex problems.

What advice would you give to people hoping to join Vortexa? 

If you are thinking of applying, just go for it. Make sure you are an energised person with a passion for seeking new challenges and continual learning, and have a driven mindset!

Describe your working life at Vortexa in three words! 

Challenging, Inspiring, Innovative!

Jessica Irvin
VP People & Operations
Vortexa
Jessica Irvin
Jessica is the VP of People & Operations at Vortexa and is responsible for hiring, learning & development, culture, engagement, performance management and leading expansion plans.