Alumni Spotlight: Chen Feng, Duke FinTech ’23

Duke University’s Master in Financial Technology (FinTech) graduates are equipped with the technical, financial, and management expertise needed to lead financial innovation. One of those graduates is Chen Feng, Duke FinTech class of 2023.

As part of the FinTech program, students are required to complete a capstone course to gain hands-on, real-world experience building a solution for a company. Through this course, Chen and a group of his peers got the opportunity to work with the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC) on a trading analysis project. They analyzed the DTCC’s historical trade data to predict peaks in trading and create data-drive strategies for the company. They also developed machine learning models to predict future peaks in the trade data. Additionally, while completing the project, Chen was able to connect with DTCC employees and learn about the culture and needs of the organization. This experience allowed Chen to have knowledge of the company’s processes, leading him to secure a full-time role at the DTCC once he graduated.

Chen is currently a Senior Associate/Lead Software Engineer in the Repository and Derivatives Services (RDS) Data Office at the DTCC. In his role, he has focused on developing a product called Trade Reporting Analytics. This product allows clients to analyze their reporting issues, which saves the client time, resources, and reduces their risk. Chen also works in a team to analyze data and relevant regulations to create insights on potential issues in a client’s trade reporting. He leverages SQL and LookML to create accessible visualizations for clients, allowing them to understand reporting errors and their performance compares to similar profiles. Additionally, he assists clients with onboarding, as well as helps gather feedback to enhance the DTCC’s products.

When reflecting on how the program prepared him for his current role, Chen mentioned how the program provided him the background he needed to succeed in his role. The required courses for the program filled in the programming and technical skill gaps Chen had after finishing his undergraduate. Through the program’s elective courses, such as Blockchain and Data Visualization, he was able to broaden his skill set and learn how to use multiple disciplines to solve problems. Additionally, he gained collaborative skills throughout his courses, which he was easily able to integrate into his role after he graduated. He also noted how the required internship and capstone experience allowed him to apply the knowledge he had learned to real world problems, as well as gave him insights that coursework alone may not provide.

If you are interested in any of our programs, please contact us at pratt_fintech@duke.edu.