Artificial Intelligence: What is It?
We are surrounded by artificial intelligence, even in unexpected locations. AI has a wide range of applications, from healthcare to home appliances to music tastes. But first, let’s examine the fundamentals of artificial intelligence using this definition from Investopedia:
Artificial intellect (AI) is the emulation of human intellect in robots that are designed to think and behave like people. Any machine that demonstrates characteristics of the human mind, such learning or problem-solving, can also be referred to by this phrase.
Artificial intelligence examples include:
- Alexa and Siri are examples of smart assistants.
- Personalized music and entertainment suggestions are offered by Pandora and Netflix.
- Chatbots
- Robotic vacuums
- Autonomous automobiles
- Software for facial recognition
Those are only a handful of the numerous instances. It goes without saying that artificial intelligence is pervasive and that there is a rising need for AI specialists. We now have more data than ever before, which means AI has gotten smarter, faster, and more accurate, according to Bernard Marr, a business and technology advisor to governments and corporations who spoke to Forbes.
In the essay, he said, “Consider Spotify recommendations as a very basic example.” Spotify is better at suggesting additional material that you might like the more music (or podcasts) you listen to on the service. Naturally, Netflix and Amazon suggestions operate on the same premise.
What Is the Work of an AI Professional?
Artificial intelligence (AI) specialists are more needed than ever since AI is a rapidly expanding and pervasive technology. The good news is that there are many various job options in the AI industry, so you may take on a variety of tasks and responsibilities according on your interests, expertise, and status.
Almost every business has a need for qualified AI specialists, including:
- Services related to finance
- Technology in Healthcare
- Media
- Marketing
- The military and the government
- Security of the nation
- Systems enabled by the Internet of Things
- Retail
- Gaming
- Agriculture
Demand for Expert AI Skills in 2024
Having the appropriate abilities will help you stand out from the competition and win the ideal job if you want to work in the professional field of artificial intelligence. First and foremost, proficiency in linear algebra and calculus is crucial. Additionally, you should be somewhat proficient in at least one of the following programming languages if you’re interested in artificial intelligence:
- Python
- C/C++
- MATLAB
These are the top 5 competencies needed for AI jobs, per ZipRecruiter:
- Communication abilities
- Expertise in Python in particular (as well as general programming language skills)
- Objectives and tactics for digital marketing
- Working well with others
- Analytical abilities
7 Technical AI Competencies That Will Be Needed in 2024
The need for specialized technical skills is growing as artificial intelligence applications spread into more sectors. Anyone hoping to be successful in this industry must keep up with these abilities. The most sought-after technical AI abilities are listed below, along with information on how to get them through training courses and certifications:
Machine Learning
recognizing models and algorithms and knowing how to use frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow to implement them.
Deep Learning
focusing on neural networks and how they are used in image recognition, natural language processing, and other fields.
Analyzing and Visualizing Data
ability to comprehend and display data using computer languages like R and Python and technologies like Tableau and Power BI.
Natural Language Processing (NLP)
Proficiency in Natural Language Processing (NLP) enables the development of applications such as chatbots and sentiment analysis tools.
Robotics
Robotics expertise in creating, assembling, and configuring robots for a range of uses.
Computer Vision
Proficiency with computer vision techniques for applying models and algorithms to extract information from photos and video data.
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing expertise in installing and scaling AI applications using platforms such as AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure.
To strengthen these abilities, think about earning AI certifications like:
IBM Applied AI Professional Certificate
This ten-course, self-paced curriculum with practical labs teaches you AI capabilities that are ready for the workplace, such as chatbots and generative AI. Finish it in six months at four hours a week to receive an IBM digital badge and Professional Certificate.
Professional Certificate in IBM AI Engineering
This six-course curriculum will teach you deep learning and machine learning techniques. To obtain an IBM Professional Certificate and digital badge, finish it in two months at a rate of ten hours per week.
Professional Certificate in Google Advanced Data Analytics
Develop your knowledge of machine learning, Python programming, and statistical analysis. Over 200 hours of training are covered in six months at a rate of ten hours per week in these seven courses. In addition to accessing professional tools and employment prospects with more than 150 U.S. organizations, graduates get a Professional Certificate from Google.
How to Begin an Artificial Intelligence Career
A mix of education, real-world experience, and careful job hunting are necessary to launch a career in artificial intelligence. Research is the initial step if you’re not currently in the field. This entails studying respectable universities and programs as well as speaking with working AI practitioners.
A bachelor’s degree in math and fundamental computer technology is typically required by hiring managers, but in many situations, it just qualifies you for entry-level jobs, according to Springboard. Engineering or computer science undergraduate degrees are excellent places to start.
In a Best Colleges article, Dan Ayoub, general manager for mixed reality education at Microsoft, clarified that students hoping to succeed in a cutting-edge subject like artificial intelligence will benefit from having “curiosity, confidence, and perseverance.” He pointed out that knowledge of data science, machine learning, and Java are excellent starting points, with degree programs providing specialized instruction. Numerous recent graduate and undergraduate programs are expressly created to educate students for employment in artificial intelligence.
An artificial intelligence master’s degree may give people who want to stand out first-hand expertise and insight from professionals in the field. A solid background in math, computer science, and data analytics is necessary for those who want to pursue a master’s degree in artificial intelligence.
After completing the required coursework, practical experience is essential. AI entry-level positions can provide as a strong starting point for a number of different career pathways. Examples of entry-level positions in artificial intelligence include the following:
AI Internships
An AI intern supports a variety of AI research and development initiatives, helps create and train machine learning models, and analyzes data. Current college students and recent graduates can obtain practical experience through internships offered by several firms.
Junior Data Analyst
Analyzing datasets to find trends and insights is part of this job.
Machine Learning Intern
The primary responsibility of this role is to support the development and training of machine learning models.
Research Assistant
Supporting AI research initiatives at academic institutions or tech firms is one of the duties of this position.
Support Specialist for AI
Assisting users with troubleshooting AI apps is part of this artificial intelligence profession.
Take into account the following tactics to locate entry-level positions such as these:
- Join online groups and go to AI conferences and events to grow your professional network.
- Examine employment portals by often visiting AI-specific job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and AI Jobs.
- Examine the career pages on the websites of businesses that specialize in artificial intelligence.
- To access job listings and networking possibilities, become a member of professional societies for AI and data science.
14 Artificial Intelligence Career Paths
AI specialists can select from a variety of positions that suit their interests and skill set, ranging from creating algorithms to evaluating big datasets. Here are a few more AI employment options to think about:
Big Data Analyst
To assist in forecasting the future, identify significant trends in data by examining the past.
Designer and Developer of User Experience (UX)
Work with items so that consumers may simply comprehend and utilize them. Recognize how people operate machinery and how computer scientists might utilize that knowledge to create increasingly sophisticated software.
Natural Language Processing Engineer
Investigate the relationship between computer systems and human language by working on initiatives like virtual assistants and chatbots.
Researcher
Engage in AI and computer science research Find methods to improve AI technology.
Research Scientist
knowledgeable about computational statistics, machine learning, deep learning, and applied mathematics. A computer science advanced degree or an advanced degree in a comparable discipline backed by experience is expected.
Software engineer
Software engineers create applications that use AI techniques. Another name for the position is an artificial intelligence developer or programmer.
AI Engineer
Create AI models from the ground up and assist stakeholders and product managers in comprehending the outcomes.
Analysis and Data Mining
Identifying trends, abnormalities, etc. in big data sets in order to forecast results.
Machine Learning Engineer
Designing, developing, and overseeing machine learning software solutions using data.
Data Scientist
Gather, examine, and evaluate data collections.
Business Intelligence (BI)
Developers examine intricate data sets to find industry and commercial trends.
Big Data Architect/Engineer
Create platforms that let companies interact and gather information.
Robotics Engineer
Design, build and test robots or robotic systems.
Computer Vision Engineer
Create and work on systems and initiatives that use visual data.
Data Engineer
Data engineers create, manage, and guarantee that data is available for analysis.
AI Moralist
ensures that while developing and implementing AI technology, the ethical aspects are taken into account.
Algorithm Developer
The creation of algorithms for diverse AI applications is the area of expertise for an algorithm developer.
UX Developer
The goal of a UX developer is to design AI experiences and interfaces that are easy to use.
Employment Prospects for Artificial Intelligence
AI experts have a very bright future ahead of them, as ZipRecruiter projects that the field will “grow explosively as it becomes capable of accomplishing more tasks.”
The creator of Big Vision LLC and interim CEO of OpenCV.org, Satya Mallick, compared artificial intelligence to “a rocket ship that is taking off” in an essay on Built In. Even entry-level positions may pay quite well, he added. “There is a great need for AI talent and a shortage of individuals with the necessary skills,” he clarified.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in computer and information technology occupations is predicted to increase by 13% between 2020 and 2030, creating around 667,600 new jobs.
Pay for Artificial Intelligence
Because salaries are dynamic, the figures we’ve provided here may change as a result of demand, inflation, trends, the labor market, and other variables.
Our degree page states that an artificial intelligence programmer typically makes between $100,000 and $150,000. AI engineers make a lot more money; the average salary is $171,715 and the top 25% make over $200,000.
These are the most common averages, while there are others that vary according on the role and duties:
- Indeed reports that the pay for jobs in artificial intelligence ranges from $141,318 for a data scientist to about $99,568 for a full stack developer.
- According to Glassdoor, the typical base pay for artificial intelligence positions in the US is $120,049 per year.
- The average income for artificial intelligence is $143,054 annually, per Talent.com. Most experienced workers can earn up to $200,000 annually, while entry-level roles start at $115,000.
Preparation for Artificial Intelligence Education
AI-related exciting, well-paying job possibilities are growing in many different areas. The Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence is a cutting-edge, online master’s degree program offered by the University of San Diego, a well-known industry thought leader and educational provider, that aims to equip graduates for success in this significant and rapidly expanding field. When creating AI-enabled technologies, this curriculum has a strong focus on practical applications, ethics, privacy, moral responsibility, and societal benefit.