Ethan Weaver: A Rising Star in AI and Business at WVU
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Introducing Ethan Weaver, a first-year student at West Virginia University, who is ambitiously pursuing dual degrees in applied artificial intelligence and data analytics, alongside finance.
At merely 19, this Grafton native is not only laying the groundwork for his second venture but is also actively participating in an array of student organizations.
Enrolled in the pioneering cohort of the Applied AI and Data Analytics Program at the esteemed John Chambers College of Business and Economics, Weaver is part of a scholarly community that is poised to master the development and management of cutting-edge AI technologies vital for maintaining corporate competitiveness.
Growing up just a short drive from Morgantown, his entrepreneurial aspirations were evident from an early age.
This determination manifested during the summer of 2023, when he juggled multiple roles: a lifeguard at a local lake, a grocery order fulfiller at Walmart, a marina attendant, and an assistant manager at the Whistle Stop Café.
Yet, alongside these jobs, he harbored a desire to create something of his own. He began by reselling sneakers and clothing, but soon progressed to establishing his first licensed enterprise, Weaver Auto and Marine Detailing.
Through this mobile service, he garnered over $10,000 in just four months, all while balancing his responsibilities at the café.
“It was a strategic trifecta,” Weaver explained. “I needed funds for my education, identified a gap in the market for mobile detailing, and leveraged my community connections to secure clients.”
Moreover, his father’s role at the MITRE Corporation has influenced his vision of integrating automation within business frameworks.
“I grew up in a technically-inclined environment,” he stated, reflecting on his upbringing. “I have always been fascinated by computer systems and started experimenting with AI models early.”
When WVU launched the Applied AI and Data Analytics Program, he seized the opportunity, transitioning to this innovative major while adding finance to his academic portfolio—a combination he deems essential for navigating the intricate landscape of modern business.
“Entrepreneurship has always been my aspiration,” Weaver remarked. “I envision establishing a scalable AI automation firm. The synergy of finance and applied AI equips me with the technical prowess and economic insight necessary for sustainable growth.”
What distinguishes WVU’s program is its commitment to experiential learning. Even in the early stages of his academic journey, Weaver is already applying theoretical knowledge to tangible projects.
He is currently collaborating with Data Driven WV, where he is constructing data visualizations and interactive county maps for the nonprofit Partners in Community Outreach, which provides essential family services statewide.
Their program focuses on in-home family visits. Our aim is to create visual data tools that enable them to measure their impact more effectively, Weaver articulated.
Gaining expertise in Power BI and recently earning Excel certification further accentuates his dedication to mastering relevant technical tools.
“Every new program and technique enriches my arsenal, empowering me to confront challenges and devise AI solutions that resonate with community needs,” he commented, eager to expand his repertoire of skills.
His ambition does not stop there; he has plans to tackle the pressing issue facing small businesses throughout the state as they grapple with the swiftly evolving AI landscape.
“Small enterprises risk obsolescence,” he warned. “Many lack the resources or knowledge to adapt, creating a substantial opportunity to assist these owners in harnessing automation to rival larger corporations.”
With initiatives still in the conceptual phase, he aspires to help automate routine tasks like email sorting and client information organization, thereby allowing employees to concentrate on more critical functions.
Weaver’s vision is supported by mentorship and resources available through initiatives such as Data Driven WV and the WVU Morris L. Hayhurst LaunchLab, a hub for innovation and commercialization.
This supportive ecosystem provides him with mentorship, prototyping resources, and collaborative spaces that are instrumental to developing his business ideas.
“Being around like-minded individuals is inspiring,” he reflected. “I can engage in meaningful discussions and receive invaluable feedback to refine my business concepts.” As he networks with industry leaders, Weaver is keen on maximizing the connections he forges.
Having enrolled in 16 credits his first semester while also benefitting from 15 dual enrollment credits from high school, he is set to advance to sophomore status by spring.
“I realized upon arrival that college aligns perfectly with my aspirations,” Weaver expressed. “The diverse opportunities and myriad networks available are precisely what I sought.”
The rapid evolution of AI posed a critical question for him as he entered the program: Would the curriculum remain agile enough to adapt? Weaver is reassured by the faculty’s active involvement in the industry, ensuring that course content evolves alongside technological advancements.
“The faculty adapts the curriculum to reflect real-time technological changes,” he noted, which has only strengthened his commitment to the program.
As he encourages potential students to delve deeper into the technical aspects of AI, he emphasizes the importance of understanding the architecture that underpins these systems.
Beyond academics and entrepreneurship, he has found a sense of community at WVU that surpasses his expectations. “Despite its size, the university fosters tight-knit connections. I frequently engage in conversations with fellow students, faculty, and industry professionals, all of whom are readily supportive.”
“The professors have exceeded my expectations,” he noted, recognizing the mentorship of Li Wang and Brad Price as particularly impactful. Each endeavor—whether serving coffee, detailing vehicles, or developing AI solutions—is approached with vigor.
“You inherently reap what you sow,” he concluded, reflecting on the demands that accompany his endeavors. As he navigates his bustling schedule filled with responsibilities and opportunities, Weaver remains profoundly thankful for his current trajectory.
Source link: Wvnews.com.
