KENNESAW, Ga. | Dec 22, 2020

Aiming to provide deep learning experiences for computing students, Kennesaw State University and InComm Payments’ Go Studio have partnered for a series of capstone projects to explore the latest in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.

The first capstone project, which began in the fall, paired four computer science students with Go Studio professionals as they utilized machine learning techniques on raw data to discover solutions that could improve customer retention for InComm Payments products. The agreement between the studio and KSU’s College of Computing and Software Engineering will continue in the spring semester with an additional three to five students, who will explore other emerging technologies. In addition to the hands-on experience offered through the partnerships, Go Studio is funding scholarships to participants.

"From personal experience, I know that participation in innovative research and industry projects is an invaluable component of the academic journey," said Chih-Cheng Hung, capstone advisor and professor of computer science. "Go Studio has provided an excellent opportunity for KSU students in this regard. Our collaboration not only gives them that research and industry experience but also prepares them for the evolution of their careers."

Unlike a normal classroom project where data is consumed in a more controlled environment, the capstone project has presented the challenge of finding answers through data that had been previously unexplored, said Jackson Randolph, one of the students selected to work alongside industry professionals through the partnership during the fall semester. Randolph was joined by classmates Erwin Joubert, Justin Duchatellier and Mark Gleason.

“Machine learning has always been an interest of mine, but learning the process of building a solution from scratch really solidified this as a potential career for me,” Randolph said. “Even though our focus was on solutions for financial technologies, I could see how a similar approach can be used in a wide array of industries.”

Michael Parlotto, vice president of emerging technologies at InComm Payments and head of Go Studio, relayed his enthusiasm for the collaborative opportunity.

“Working with the KSU students gave us the chance to hear and apply insights from bright young minds as we explored these technologies, and we’re looking forward to collaborating with more teams next year,” he said. “And this partnership is a great gateway to connect students with mentorship in the growing tech market; it’s a clear win-win.”

– Travis Highfield

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A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 45,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.