How to Get Started in AI and Machine Learning
How to Get Started in AI and Machine Learning AI and machine learning aren’t just passing trends in an ever-evolving digital landscape – they are critical aspects of the future of our planet. Rapid development in AI has already transformed many industries, and it will continue to do so, with Forbes projecting that AI will be very big. This technology is here now, and a lot of people want to get involved. What may surprise you is that it’s possible to get a job in AI or machine learning without a specialized degree. 5 Core Skills for Getting a Job in AI and Machine Learning The idea of an AI career may sound uber-cool in a slick, futuristic kind of way, but behind the scenes, AI and machine learning jobs entail tasks and abilities that may not have everyone leaping out of bed on a Monday morning. To truly succeed in an AI career, you must have some core skills. Moreover, you should have a genuine passion for the work that is involved. Consider the following: Probability and Statistics: To say you should have a head for numbers is an understatement. Ideally, you should be excited to read about statistical theories and get giddy on probability problems. Applied Math: It’s mostly about high-level mathematics. When you’re learning about complex things like algorithms and gradient descent, you should only yawn because it’s too easy. Programming Proficiency: Python is the best language to learn when you want to start a career in machine learning or AI. Build your skills in languages like C++ and Java too. Distributed Computing: AI runs on data, and often that data is spread over many machines. Learn to handle massive datasets efficiently across distributed systems. Unix: Most AI work happens on Linux systems. Get familiar with Unix commands and tools if you’re not already. What to do Before You Apply for an AI Job As mentioned, a degree is not essential for an AI career. Of course, it would certainly boost your chances, especially as competition for artificial intelligence jobs increases in the years ahead. 1. Online Study If you’re truly motivated to get an AI career, you can undertake self-directed study. There is a plethora of fantastic options online now. Here are a few gems: Learn with Google AI: Free and beginner-friendly intro to machine learning and AI. Machine Learning by Stanford University: A Coursera course by Andrew Ng. Comprehensive and respected. Fundamentals of Deep Learning for Computer Vision by Nvidia: Learn how to build visual recognition systems. 2. Personal Projects To gain experience without a formal job, contribute on platforms like GitHub. Employers value real projects more than certificates. Tips for your GitHub project: Pick a project aligned with your current skills. Keep it under a month to finish. Ensure clean, commented, modular code. Include a README.md with dependencies, tech stack, and resources used. How to Find a Job in AI or Machine Learning You get the chance to work alongside experienced engineers, data scientists, and programmers, gaining valuable experience on smaller projects before securing a long-term role. 1. Build Your Network LinkedIn: Connect with peers, industry experts, and potential employers. AI Communities: Get active on GitHub, Kaggle, etc., to network and find jobs. Events: Attend AI meetups and tech conferences, especially in major cities. 2. Create a Shortlist As you explore the field, compile a list of 20–25 companies you’d love to work for. Research their websites and socials to see if their mission aligns with yours. 3. Judge Yourself Study job descriptions to learn the required skills and tools. Compare your abilities with what the roles demand. Close the gap through learning and practicing. 4. Continued AI Career Development Portfolio Website: Display your projects, resume, and skills. Blog: Write about AI/ML topics and share your learning process. Freelancing: Gain real-world experience through platforms like Upwork and Freelancer.
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