23 Sep The Faces Behind Fluent: Amber Gonzalez
As part of Fluent Research’s 20th anniversary, we’re continuing to highlight the people whose experience, ideas, and perspectives have helped shape Fluent. This week, we’re featuring Amber Gonzalez, a quantitative researcher who helps turn complex datasets into clear, compelling stories.
Amber’s work spans the research process, from drafting survey questions and developing analysis plans to creating visualizations that communicate research findings.
Get to know Amber in our latest staff profile, including her memorable fieldwork on a PBS KIDS Odd Squad research project, the career she almost pursued, and her love for the Knicks.
1) Amber, what’s your role at Fluent, and what does a typical day look like for you?
I’m a quantitative researcher at Fluent, where I’m involved throughout the research process. No two days are exactly the same. A typical day might involve drafting survey questions or a data analysis plan, digging into data, answering client questions, or developing insights and visualizations for research decks and presentations.
I also spend time thinking about ways to improve our workflows and tools, particularly when it comes to data visualization and AI. Overall, it’s a constant mix of research, problem-solving, and figuring out how to turn giant datasets into clear, compelling stories.
2) What’s been your most memorable project or moment at Fluent?
One of my most memorable projects was traveling to Texas to help with data collection for the PBS KIDS Odd Squad research project. I did a lot of similar fieldwork across the country in my previous role, so it was really fun to get back to that type of hands-on research again. It was a nice change of pace from my usual quant work and a great reminder of how much I enjoy seeing research come to life in the field.
3) How has Fluent evolved since you joined?
Fluent has grown a lot since I joined. The company has nearly doubled in size, so it’s been interesting to see how our team, capabilities, and the types of projects we take on have evolved along with that growth.
4) What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
I’m a big Knicks fan. Knicks in 5! 🧡💙
5) Amber, if you weren’t in research, what career would you have pursued?
I almost became a school psychologist! I was deciding between that and research, but ultimately chose research because I felt like it would give me more flexibility and a wider range of opportunities.
6) If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
I’d love to walk the Camino de Santiago from Portugal to Spain. I enjoy hiking and exploring new places, so taking in the scenery and discovering all the small towns along the way sounds amazing. Japan is also high on my list for many of the same reasons. I’d love to experience the culture, explore different parts of the country, and, of course, try all the food!
7) What’s your favorite snack or drink to have while working?
Definitely coffee in the mornings, preferably Puerto Rican coffee! It’s my favorite way to start the workday.