From Alexa, Siri to self-driving cars, the scope of artificial intelligence has been growing each passing year. AI is nothing like what Sci-Fi movies show and in reality, it has become the centre focus in revolutionizing modern society. So, what exactly is AI?
What is artificial intelligence?
In a nutshell, AI is nothing but a computer simulation that can imitate or mimic human intelligence. This essentially means a machine that can process learning, reasoning and self-correction to perform functions that humans perform.
Currently, we have two kinds of AI or artificial intelligence; weak and strong. Siri, Alexa and Okay Google can be categorized under weak AIs. These AIs are designed to perform a certain function, which in such cases can be defined as virtual assistants.
Strong AIs or artificial general intelligence is far more complex than weak AIs. These AIs possess generalized human cognitive abilities and can resolve even unfamiliar tasks without any human assistance.
What do employees in artificial intelligence industry do?
In simple words, employees in the artificial intelligence industry are responsible for research and development of various projects in AI and machine learning. There are engineers who work in robotics, software engineers who develop different AI programs, and even medical health professionals who work in developing prosthetic limbs and vision restoration devices etc.
The artificial intelligence industry pretty much consists of software developers, medical professionals, research scientists, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, aviation electricians and more.
You can think of it like any IT or engineering company but with AIs, machine learning and robots. Projects that are not into mass production but in a state of research and development.
Why build a career in artificial intelligence?
According to the World Economic Forum, AI will create a net of 58 million jobs by the year 2022. The real number of job roles created by 2022 will be around 133 million, however, AI will also displace 75 million jobs.
These statistics are encouraging and also shed a light on the fact that AI is only going to grow as our civilization progresses towards the future.
The same report also suggests that automation will eventually take over most of the current work tasks out of which 71% are currently being done by humans. This will have a major impact on the global workforce.
It also suggests that over 54% employees of giant organizations will have to upskill their competency in order to fully take advantage of such opportunities.
This means that this is the right time to jump on the AI bandwagon as it will only grow in the future.
Pros and cons of working in artificial intelligence industry
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High paid jobs | Chance of project failures |
| Innovative and creative work | Pressure of innovating |
| Chance of revolutionizing society | Frustrating roadblocks and hurdles |
| Loads of future opportunities | Need for constant research and learning |
Qualification required to join artificial intelligence industry
To join the artificial intelligence industry, basic knowledge of computer technology and mathematics is crucial. However, there are administrative, leadership and management roles which at least requires a bachelor degree and some may require masters or even doctoral degrees.
If you are a software developer, mechanical engineer, medical professional or research scientist, then you can switch to artificial intelligence easily. However, we recommend you brush up your skills or do courses for honing the following skills.
People who are interested in joining the AI industry should find degree programs that major in AI such as B.Tech in computer science and artificial intelligence, robotics or similar courses that offer degrees in artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics.
Artificial intelligence courses and certifications
To work in the artificial intelligence industry, you need to possess the skills mentioned in the previous section. So, it’s better to get your graduate degree in AI, machine learning or robotics. However, if you’re already a graduate then there are post graduation courses and certifications that you can do in order to understand the basics of AI.
Following are some of the popular AI, machine learning or robotics courses and certifications in India:
- PG Program in AI and Machine Learning By Great Learning
- Full Stack Machine Learning and AI Program By Jigsaw Academy
- PG Diploma in Machine Learning and AI from IIIT-B
- PG Program in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning By Edureka
- Applied Machine Learning Course By Applied AI Course
Job roles in artificial intelligence industry
| Role | Major responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Data Scientist | Predicting business trends by gathering and analyzing massive data using AI technology. |
| Software Developer | Developing and writing code not only for AI but also for platforms used in creating & deploying machine learning and AI systems. |
| Research Scientist | Experimenting and understanding the human mind using cognitive science simulations. |
| Robotics Engineer | Designing, developing and testing robots that can be used safely and are economic for society. |
| Machine Learning Engineer | Developing and programming machines that perform certain tasks in full automation. |
Artificial intelligence salaries
| Job role | Average annual salary range |
|---|---|
| Machine Learning Engineer | 364,000 - 15,28,000 |
| AI Software Engineer | 324,000 - 979,000 |
| Data Scientist | 360,000 - 20,00,000 |
| Solution Architect | 10,00,000 - 20,00,000 |
Artificial intelligence skills
| Skills | Details |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Knowledge of probability, statistics, algebra, calculus, algorithm and logic. |
| Networking | Neural nets, graphical modelling and Bayesian networks. |
| Engineering | Knowledge of Physics and Robotics. |
| Computer Science | Programming languages like Java, Python, C++, Prolog etc. |
| Cognitive Science Theory | Knowledge of cognition and how cognitive science works. |
Tips to get a job in AI industry
If you’re looking out to get a job in the AI industry, the following are some of the tips to do so.
Do an AI, machine learning or robotics course
As previously discussed in this blog, it’s highly important to know about the intricacies of artificial intelligence. If you’re a graduate, then it is better to do a PG diploma in AI, machine learning or robotics to get a basic understanding of how the industry works and learn the essential skills needed to work in the industry.
Learn more programming languages
AI is on rise which is why there are no specific standards when it comes to programming languages. As mentioned previously in this post, AI is based on different languages and that may depend on different companies. So, if you want to improve your chances of nailing your dream AI job, then learn a language you already don’t know. Anything from Java, C++, Python and Prolog will suffice.
Brush up your mathematics
Mathematics is crucial in artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics. So, it’s important you prepare and revise subjects like algebra, calculus, statistics and algorithms.
Read. Read. Read.
Artificial intelligence is not an established industry. So, you can’t expect to read a book and be ready for an interview or a job. The industry is subject to change on a day to day basis. Read about the industry trends, the latest technologies and so on. Stay on top of the AI news and updates!
Start your own project
Artificial intelligence industry is the industry of creatives and innovators. So, be innovative! Take up a small project for yourself and work on it. AI companies will surely be impressed if you’re already trying to explore and experiment on your own.
Artificial intelligence blogs
Here are some of the popular blogs related to artificial intelligence.
Artificial intelligence books
Here are some of the books on AI that you should read:
- Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach By Stuart J. Russell
- Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence By Max Tegmark
- How to Create a Mind: The Secret of Human Thought Revealed By Ray Kurzweil
- The Singularity is Near: When Humans Transcend Biology By Ray Kurzweil
- Machine Learning With R By Brett Lantz
AI YouTube videos and channels
Some popular AI and machine learning YouTube channels:
