In simple terms, “artificial intelligence” is the simulation of human intelligence behavior by machines. The word “machine” here primarily means computers. There are several extensions of the concept of artificial intelligence like “expert systems”, “speech recognition”, “natural language processing (NLP)”, etc. All these have wide applications. For example, “expert systems” help to solve complex problems by simulating human judgment. It is used in areas like prediction of a disease or improving healthcare processes, augmenting quality of banking / other financial services, speeding up production process and delivery to end customers, etc. NLP is a fascinating area that enables a computer to understand text and spoken words and execute accordingly. ChatGPT is the latest application of NLP whereby writing of any type on a topic has become much simpler. And the list goes on. The subset of AI through machine learning (ML) enables machines to perform better and with more precision.

Thus, AI and its subsets like ML have changed the way the world traditionally used to operate; things are going to be simpler, and data driven in days to come.

In the above context, AI has got immense career potential for really good students who are focused and passionate.

Major Job Profiles:

1.    AI Research Scientist: These are the people who are at the core developing the computer algorithms needed for AI driven applications. They are involved in extensive research in AI and are integral to part of any team that is operating in artificial intelligence space.

2.    Machine Learning Engineer: These professionals are the engines of AI space. They are engaged in designing software, predictive models, programs & algorithms that enable computers to understand the jobs they are expected to do without any active human interference or direction. ML engineers are the backbone of growth of development of AI driven products / processes.

 3.    Robotic Engineer: These experts are engaged in developing robotic systems that can perform human and non-human functions. Robotic engineers play an important role in developing as well as managing the entire robotic portfolio.

4.    Data Scientist: It is a world of data and AI systems built on machine-driven actions that are intended to help a business enterprise. But for this, companies need professionals who can understand and analyze huge amounts of data and to interpret the same. This is the work profile of data scientists. They constitute an important component of the value chain of the AI stream.

5.    Business Intelligence (BI) Expert: Everything in the chain of AI depends on business intelligence and understanding thereof. This will help one to understand market trends. BI experts thus play an important role in all AI decisions.

Educational Qualifications:

A bachelor’s degree in engineering in computer science or data science is the minimum qualification needed to enter a career of artificial intelligence. However, there are institutions that offer dedicated graduation / post-graduation degrees in artificial intelligence. For research-oriented jobs, doing doctoral qualification is always preferred. Students may also like to do special certifications in areas like ML or specific programming languages. A strong grooming in mathematics and computer programming is essential for making a successful career in artificial intelligence.

Needed Competencies:

A deeper understanding of computer programming coupled with business complexity is must for a successful career. Students should have strong problem-solving skills and analytical acumen. The presence of research mindedness is desirable. Students should also be good in communication, both oral as well as written.

Looking Forward:

Dr A K Sen Gupta is the Founder and Convener, Higher Education Forum (HEF). He is former Director of SIES College of Management Studies (SIESCOMS), Navi Mumbai and Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s S P Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR), Mumbai. He may be contacted at aksengupta51@gmail.com or 9821128103.