A Brief Guide To Careers In Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning 

As technological advancements trickle into our lives more and more frequently each year, nearly every aspect of our lives has seen technological penetration that has been a game-changer for the way we live. From a business standpoint, technology has been the cornerstone for their very survival and growth. Out of all the innovations and technology, none have left a greater impact on humankind than Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML).

AI and ML have redefined society as a whole in ways that we would have never imagined. Right from simple day-to-day functions such as opening our phones (Touch ID, Facial recognition) and navigation (Maps) to more complex business functions in nearly every industry, AI and ML have gained immense traction in a short period. Having said that, it’s no wonder that these are the most in-demand skill sets that companies look for when hiring candidates as careers evolve in response to technological breakthroughs.

Now, what career prospects do these skills offer? And how can you build a successful career out of them? Before looking at the answer to these questions, let’s first understand what AI and ML are, and what they can do.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

A wide-ranging branch of computer science, AI, at its core, refers to the simulation or replication of human intelligence in machines. It’s an interdisciplinary science that can be approached in multiple ways. ML, on the other hand, is a branch of AI and computer science that relies on the use of algorithms and data to imitate the way humans learn.

Building a career in AI and ML

Building a career in AI or ML is neither an easy nor a hard road. However, it does require a dedicated approach and certain prerequisites. For instance, statistical and mathematical skills, probability, programming skills, Advanced Signal processing techniques, distributed computing, etc., will prove extremely beneficial to those looking to build successful careers in AI or ML. Completing a professional certificate course from a firm/institution that offers placement opportunities can also lay a foundation that can help you build a successful career. Now for the million-dollar question – which career paths can you choose in the AI/ML field?

Data scientist: Responsible for garnering data and analyzing it, Data Scientists need to have strong foundations in mathematics and statistics to analyze large volumes of data efficiently. The demand for Data Scientists is growing astronomically with hiring in the industry increasing by 46 per cent since 2019. In fact, it’s foreseen that by 2026, the country will have over 11 million job opportunities in the Data Science field. This growing demand will result in an upward career arc for professionals and aspirants who possess the right skill sets.

ML Engineer: The job responsibility of an ML Engineer lies at the core of AI projects – anyone with a background in Applied Research and Data Science capabilities can opt for a career as an ML Engineer. Strong Natural Language Processing skills and knowledge in agile development practices along with proficiency in leading software development tools will help you lay a strong base for your career as an ML Engineer.

AI Architect: AI Architects are in charge of the overall requirements of the AI-based projects by comprehending all of the objectives before beginning their work. Besides, they also need to understand how AI is utilized in their organization. Being an AI Architect is a job that requires long periods of involvement in the AI field and isn’t an entry-level job.

Big Data Engineer: Big Data Engineers perhaps hold one of the most important roles and are at the core of AI-related jobs. They play a pivotal role in constructing an environment that allows a business framework to interact with another, so most organizations seek Big Data Engineers who are highly qualified. Big Data Engineers also need to be adept at programming, C++, Java, Python, etc., to excel at their jobs.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning offer multiple other career prospects such as Software Developer, Hardware Specialist, etc., that can help build innovative solutions to make life simple. However, given the breakneck pace at which AI and ML are transforming our lives, many often wonder if machines will take over the world. While machines may not completely take over the world, since human intelligence is unparalleled, AI and ML may render some jobs redundant. This is where upskilling comes into the picture.   

Upskilling yourself in new-age technologies can go a long way in helping you to build and sustain your career. Today, professional education firms offer certificate courses taught by industry stalwarts with specially curated content and even offer placement opportunities to help you build your career and stay updated with the latest industry trends. Ultimately, upskilling will allow humans and machines to work together to build unique solutions that benefit humankind in the long run.

Nikhil Barshikar

Guest Author Nikhil Barshikar is the Founder and Managing Director of Imarticus Learning, one of India’s leading professional ed-tech company that offers training in financial services and analytics. Nikhil has spent the better part of his 16-year long career in investment banking and capital markets, having held key leadership positions at some of the world’s largest finance and investment companies. Besides a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Rutgers University, Nikhil also holds a joint MBA from Columbia University and London Business School