Jobs in artificial intelligence are in high demand, with numerous companies looking to hire people who can work with AI in different capacities. Experts predict that AI will create over 90 million new jobs by 2025, so if you’re looking to get into a career in AI, now’s the time. Today, we’re going to talk about some of the top skills of AI job seekers, along with some relevant soft skills that you might already have. Let’s begin.
Programming Languages
If you want to get into a career working with AI, working knowledge of programming languages is essential. The most widely-used languages are Java, Python, and C++; however, it would be to your advantage to learn as much as you can about a wide variety of programming languages including Lisp, R, Julia, Prolog, and Haskell, just to name a few. Programming languages can be used for machine learning, as well as for analytical purposes. As the use of AI becomes more widespread in many industries, knowledge of such languages will become increasingly valuable.
Natural Language Processing
Nowadays, almost anyone who uses a smart phone, a voice assistance device, or programs such as ChatGPT has experienced some form of natural language processing (NLP). NLP is used to help computers learn how to understand human language and how it is used in both written and spoken form. The applications of NLP are numerous, and it is becoming more commonplace in the medical field, which means demand for this skill will continue to grow.
Neural Networks and Deep Learning
Think of a neural network as a virtual “brain,” where algorithms act as “synapses” that identify and connect different pieces of data together. Neural networks have multiple applications, often helping perform tasks such as market research, the assessment of various risks, and even medical diagnoses.
Deep learning comes into play when multiple neural networks are combined in order to deal with particularly vast data sets. In most cases, deep learning is used in speech recognition and the aforementioned natural language processing; however, it can also be used to make predictions based on processed data. If you’ve ever visited a website only to be greeted by a chatbot, you’ve witnessed the use of deep learning first-hand.
Data Science
Many companies are starting to jump on the AI train in order to optimize their business. Those who work in data science as it relates to AI have specialized skills in computing, statistics, and mathematics. Data science is often used to analyze current trends so that businesses can anticipate changes to the market and adjust accordingly. The applications of data science are near limitless, and the insights that are gained through its use can greatly improve almost every aspect of a company’s operations.
Soft Skills
There are also a number of soft skills that can be applied to jobs in artificial intelligence. If you’re looking to change careers and jump on the AI bandwagon, you might already have some of these skills that can be used as transferable skills on your resume.
Working Well under Pressure
The use of AI in various industries is in its infancy, which means there’s still a lot of ground to cover, and companies might rush to catch up to competitors who are further along. If you’re particularly good at working efficiently and with focus during stressful situations, you probably have what it takes for a career in artificial intelligence.
Communication Skills
As with most careers, if you’re working in artificial intelligence you’ll need to be skilled in both written and verbal communications. Along with this, you’ll be required to work in collaborative environments, so being able to communicate with others effectively is key. If you’re accustomed to working cooperatively with others and you’re an outstanding communicator, you might be able to leverage those skills for a great job in AI.
Creativity and Critical Thinking
As the use of AI becomes more commonplace, companies will be seeking to develop new and exciting ways to implement it in their business operations. If you’re a creative thinker who always comes up with inventive ways to solve complex problems, you might have what it takes to revolutionize the use of AI in the workplace.
Of course, in order to solve any problems, you’ll first need the ability to identify them. As more companies start to incorporate AI into their day-to-day operations, new problems will most certainly arise, which is where your critical thinking skills come into play. Critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills are a recipe for success, and both will be in high demand for years to come.
The ways in which we use and interact with artificial intelligence systems will continue to evolve at a rapid pace. There’s no better time than the present to start developing the skills you need for a great career in AI, whether it’s through a traditional degree program, or a tech bootcamp. At the moment there’s a plenty of room for trailblazers, so if you’ve got the skills and the creativity, you’ve got the potential to make a strong impression in the world of AI.
Originally published by Vault
