Learning Online, Leading in FinTech: Wyatt Williams’ Journey
Duke University’s Master’s in Financial Technology (FinTech) program is known for producing graduates who go on to become leaders in financial innovation. Among the current students preparing to follow that path is Wyatt Williams, an online student in the Duke FinTech program and a Principal Solutions Engineer at nCino Inc.
Duke University’s Master’s in Financial Technology (FinTech) program is known for producing graduates who go on to become leaders in financial innovation. Among the current students preparing to follow that path is Wyatt Williams, an online student in the Duke FinTech program and a Principal Solutions Engineer at nCino Inc.
Fascinated by blockchain and digital assets, Wyatt came across Duke’s renowned blockchain research and contributions to thought leadership in the fintech industry. This led him to learning more about the Duke FinTech program, in which he saw how the program is teaching students skills that are extremely desirable in the financial services industry.
Duke FinTech Online StudentFrom Blockchain technology, Quantitative analysis, and software engineering to core programming fundamentals – the breadth of the program is simply unmatched. With these skills I will advance my career and open new opportunities to build solutions for challenges within our industry.
After further research, Wyatt decided to take the leap and join Team FinTech.
In addition to being a student, Wyatt is a Principal Solutions Engineer at nCino Inc. Working in Presales, he creates an articulated vision using nCino’s technology that solves customer pain points and challenges at financial institutions. Overcoming obstacles, building new solutions, and guiding customers to a solution that works for them, Wyatt is heavily engaged in creating connections during the early steps of the customer lifecycle.
When reflecting on how the program has helped him in his current role, as well as a future one, Wyatt mentioned how his problem-solving and programming skills have enhanced greatly. Being able to understand the core engineering principles and apply them intentionally has allowed Wyatt to better understand the solutions nCino creates. He also has been exposed to a variety of areas in the financial services industry, which he is hopeful will lead to future opportunities. Lastly, he is developing an in-demand skills, such as programming, quantitative analysis, statistical modelling, and fundamental engineering skills.
Duke FinTech Online StudentI will undoubtedly leave this program as a force in the industry, and ready to lead FinTech innovation from the front.
Besides the industry skills and knowledge Wyatt is gaining, he also mentioned how the online program has been extremely accommodating when balancing his professional and personal life. With well-laid out courses, recorded lectures, and accommodating professors, Wyatt has the flexibility he needs to complete his coursework on his schedule. He also noted how Professor John Fimbel, Duke FinTech’s Online Program Lead, makes sure that the online students do not feel isolated. He checks on them consistently and ensures they feel connected to the larger Duke community. Additionally, Wyatt mentioned how his most notable experience at Duke so far has been his on-campus residency and getting to climb the Duke Chapel. He thanks Jordan Fritz, Duke FinTech’s Senior Program Coordinator, for going above and beyond to welcome him and his family to Team FinTech during residency.
To learn more about our online program, please contact pratt_fintech@duke.edu.