I was a data scientist at NASA. Here are 5 things to know before you enter the field as it evolves with AI.

• Chris Mattmann worked in data science at NASA for nearly 24 years.
• He shares the five warnings he’d give others who want to break into the field.
• Mattmann emphasizes the importance of discipline knowledge, a supportive network, and adapting to AI.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Chris Mattmann, a 44-year-old data scientist from La Canada Flintridge, California, who previously served as NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory’s…