The field of artificial intelligence has a tremendous career outlook, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 31.4 percent increase in jobs for data scientists and mathematical science professionals — which are crucial to AI — by 2030. AI also includes intriguing subfields such as computer vision, and it encompasses machine learning, which is teaching machines to perfect and improve skills on their own. Machine learning jobs are poised to grow over the next several years, as machine learning engineers are the second most in-demand role in the field.  AI also offers the ability to work in a variety of fields and with life-changing technology. AI helps medical professionals find and diagnose diseases. Transportation uses AI in technology such as self-driving vehicles, businesses use AI to crunch and analyze performance figures and manufacturers use AI to assemble equipment. Jobs in AI tend to pay well, plus an AI career is future-proof because it is a component of so many cutting-edge, forward-thinking advancements. So how does one get into AI, and what does an artificial intelligence career path look like? We asked some of the field’s top experts to share insights from their journey to help guide the way. We spoke with Satya Mallick, founder of Big Vision LLC and interim CEO of OpenCV.org; Jana Eggers, CEO of Nara Logistics; and Joanna Bryson, former associate professor of computer science at the University of Bath in England and now professor of ethics and technology at the Hertie School in Berlin, Germany. Their responses have been edited and condensed.

AI is an excellent career for the future. Here are 20 reasons why:

  1. AI is one of the fastest-growing fields, with a projected growth rate of 37% from 2020 to 2025.
  2. AI is already widely used in industries such as healthcare, finance, transportation, and entertainment, and its adoption is only increasing.
  3. AI has the potential to revolutionize virtually every industry, making it an exciting and dynamic field to work in.
  4. AI professionals are in high demand and command competitive salaries.
  5. AI is a multidisciplinary field, requiring skills in computer science, math, statistics, and engineering, which provides opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds.
  6. AI is a highly creative field that requires innovative thinking to solve complex problems.
  7. AI is driving significant advancements in robotics, autonomous systems, and automation, leading to the creation of new job opportunities.
  8. AI is a critical component in the development of smart cities and the Internet of Things, which will be central to the future of urban living.
  9. AI is being used to solve some of the world’s most significant challenges, such as climate change, disease prevention, and poverty reduction.
  10. AI is driving advancements in natural language processing, speech recognition, and image and video recognition, making it possible to create more immersive, interactive experiences.
  11. AI is helping to transform education, with the development of intelligent tutoring systems and personalized learning experiences.
  12. AI is being used to improve the accuracy and efficiency of scientific research, enabling faster discoveries and breakthroughs.
  13. AI is playing an increasingly critical role in cybersecurity, helping to identify and prevent cyberattacks.
  14. AI is being used to develop more efficient and sustainable energy systems, which will be crucial for addressing climate change.
  15. AI is being used to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of medical diagnoses and treatments, leading to better health outcomes for patients.
  16. AI is helping to automate tedious and repetitive tasks, freeing up time for employees to focus on more strategic and creative work.
  17. AI is being used to enhance customer experiences and streamline business operations in industries such as retail, hospitality, and transportation.
  18. AI is driving advancements in self-driving cars, which have the potential to reduce traffic accidents and congestion.
  19. AI is being used to create more efficient and effective supply chains, leading to cost savings and improved productivity.
  20. AI is a constantly evolving field, offering opportunities for continued learning and growth throughout one’s career.
  1. AI is being used to improve environmental monitoring and conservation efforts, helping to protect endangered species and habitats.
  2. AI is driving advancements in financial technology (fintech), leading to the creation of innovative financial products and services.
  3. AI is being used to improve the accuracy and speed of legal research, helping to streamline the legal process and increase access to justice.
  4. AI is being used to improve the efficiency and safety of manufacturing processes, leading to increased productivity and reduced costs.
  5. AI is being used to develop personalized marketing strategies, leading to more effective and targeted advertising campaigns.
  6. AI is helping to automate the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, improving access to mental healthcare.
  7. AI is being used to improve the accuracy and efficiency of logistics and transportation systems, leading to faster and more reliable delivery of goods and services.
  8. AI is being used to develop virtual assistants and chatbots, improving customer service and support.
  9. AI is driving advancements in agriculture, leading to more efficient and sustainable food production.
  10. AI is being used to develop smart homes and buildings, leading to more comfortable and energy-efficient living and working environments.

Scopes and career in AI.

There are many different types of careers and opportunities within the field of AI, each with its own unique scope and potential for growth. Here are some of the most common career paths in AI:

Machine learning engineer

Develops and deploys machine learning algorithms and models.

Data scientist

Analyzes large datasets to identify trends and patterns and makes predictions using statistical methods.

AI researcher

Conducts research into new AI techniques and algorithms, pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

AI architect

Designs and develops AI systems and applications, ensuring they are scalable and efficient.

Robotics engineer

Develops and designs robots that use AI algorithms for perception, decision-making, and control.

Natural language processing (NLP) engineer

Develops AI systems that can process and understand human language.

Computer vision engineer

Develops AI systems that can interpret and analyze visual data, such as images and video.

AI ethicist

Examines the ethical implications of AI systems and helps to develop guidelines for their responsible use.

AI product manager

Oversees the development and deployment of AI systems and applications, ensuring they meet customer needs and business objectives.

AI consultant

Provides expert advice and guidance on the development and implementation of AI systems and strategies.

The scope of AI is vast and continues to expand as new applications are developed and existing systems are improved. AI is being used in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, finance, transportation, manufacturing, retail, and more. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, there will be a growing demand for skilled professionals to design, develop, and manage these systems. This means that the career opportunities in AI are diverse and abundant, with many opportunities for growth and advancement.

What are the first steps to pursue an AI career?

If you are interested in pursuing a career in AI, here are some steps you can take to get started:

  1. Develop a solid foundation in computer science, mathematics, and statistics. A strong background in these areas will provide you with the fundamental skills needed to understand and develop AI systems.
  2. Gain experience with programming languages commonly used in AI, such as Python, Java, and C++. You can take online courses or attend coding boot camps to gain hands-on experience.
  3. Build a portfolio of AI projects that demonstrate your skills and expertise. This can include developing machine learning models, creating chatbots or virtual assistants, or developing computer vision systems.
  4. Pursue formal education in AI, such as a degree in computer science, data science, or AI. Many universities offer specialized AI programs, both at the undergraduate and graduate level.
  5. Participate in AI competitions or challenges, such as Kaggle, which can help you gain experience and network with other AI professionals.
  6. Attend AI conferences and events to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field and to network with other professionals.
  7. Seek out internships or apprenticeships in AI-related fields, such as machine learning or data analysis, to gain practical experience.
  8. Join online AI communities, such as Reddit’s r/MachineLearning or the AI Stack Exchange, to ask questions, share knowledge, and network with other AI professionals.
  9. Consider obtaining certifications in AI-related areas, such as machine learning or data science, to demonstrate your expertise to potential employers.
  10. Finally, be prepared to continually learn and stay up-to-date on the latest developments in AI. The field is constantly evolving, and staying current with new trends and technologies is essential for success.

Do you need a bachelor’s degree and a graduate degree to work in AI? 

While having a bachelor’s degree and a graduate degree in AI-related fields can be beneficial for a career in AI, it is not always a requirement. The specific education and experience requirements for AI jobs will vary depending on the employer, job role, and level of seniority. In some cases, having a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as computer science, engineering, or mathematics, may be sufficient for entry-level positions in AI. However, as you progress in your career, a graduate degree, such as a master’s or a Ph.D., may be necessary to advance to more senior roles or to conduct advanced research in AI. It’s worth noting that in addition to formal education, practical experience and a strong portfolio of AI projects can also be valuable in pursuing a career in AI. Many employers value practical skills and experience over formal education, so building a portfolio of AI projects can be a great way to demonstrate your skills and expertise. Ultimately, the specific education and experience requirements for AI jobs will depend on the employer and the specific job role. It’s important to research job postings and requirements for positions that interest you to get a better understanding of what qualifications and experience are required.

In conclusion, pursuing a career in AI can be a rewarding and challenging endeavor. With the field constantly growing and evolving, there are many opportunities to develop new skills, work on exciting projects, and make a real impact on the world. While having a bachelor’s or graduate degree in AI or a related field can be helpful, it’s not always a requirement. A solid foundation in computer science, mathematics, and statistics, as well as practical experience and a strong portfolio of AI projects, can also be valuable in pursuing a career in AI. Whether you are interested in developing machine learning models, designing robotics systems, or conducting research into new AI techniques, there are many different career paths and opportunities available in the field of AI. With the right education, experience, and skills, you can make a significant contribution to this exciting and rapidly growing field.