How to be an AI expert

In its early days, artificial intelligence was considered something straight out of science fiction. However, over time, what we once considered distant has become our reality and now more and more companies are looking for AI experts.

Today, most companies need technologies based on artificial intelligence. Therefore, it is increasingly important to hire specialised professionals in this field. If you are wondering how to be an AI expert, you’re in the right place to find out some answers.

A degree in computer engineering, such as the one offered at Universidad Europea in Madrid, is a great opportunity for anyone interested in becoming an expert in artificial intelligence.

What is an expert in artificial intelligence?

An expert in artificial intelligence (AI) is a professional who makes operational improvements based on machine learning. They are also capable of developing new processes, objects or services to solve problems or carry out certain functions independently.

To do this, AI specialists programme computers and simulate human thought, working with systems capable of collecting information, making decisions and acting on the information they are given.

AI expert: interests and skills

Some interests that people who want to work with artificial intelligence are expected to have are as follows:

• Creation of intelligent systems.
• Solving challenges in different professional sectors through the use of artificial intelligence.
• Research into process automation and optimisation.
• Correcting possible errors through autonomous learning algorithms.
• Interest in learning how to analyse and model data using different programming languages.

In addition to the interesting ones mentioned above, all professionals working with AI should have the following skills:

• Programming skills: this is perhaps the most important skill. This is because, as an AI expert, you will be working continuously with computers to create and develop systems. That is why learning programming languages such as Python or R is essential to be able to work with artificial intelligence.
• Knowledge of linear algebra, probability and statistics: necessary for artificial intelligence experts to understand and implement different AI models.
• Competence in big data technology: artificial intelligence professionals work with large volumes of data through which all information is manipulated. To handle them, it is necessary to have knowledge of big data technology such as Apache Spark or Cassandra.
• Understanding algorithms and frameworks: knowing how machine learning algorithms work will help you operate with them and implement them in AI. In addition, when applying algorithms in an AI model, an understanding of frameworks is required. Some of these frameworks are known as Caffe, PyTorch or Theano.
• Communication and problem-solving skills: The most important soft skills for artificial intelligence professionals are those related to their communication skills and ability to solve problems.

Duties of an AI expert

If you want to work as an artificial intelligence expert, these are some of the duties you will perform on a daily basis:

• Develop machine learning systems that help improve certain processes.
• Design artificial intelligence algorithms capable of analysing large volumes of data.
• Develop projects based on machine learning or deep learning.
• Create AI-based products or services such as chatbots.
• Design algorithms capable of mimicking human skills.
• Manage the proper maintenance of artificial intelligence systems.
• Detect possible new applications for AI.
• Use data mining and design related applications to help companies make decisions.

What should you study to become an AI expert?

Although it is true that many people start from scratch when studying artificial intelligence, there are certain training courses that are very helpful in acquiring a good foundation.

For example, people with university degrees and professional training related to the field of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) have a great advantage when it comes to specialising in artificial intelligence.

Some of the degrees related to this training are as follows:

• Degree in Physics.
• Computer science (Universidad Europea also offered a degree in computer engineering in Malaga.
• Degree in Industrial engineering.

After completing this type of study, it is common to pursue a master's degree, postgraduate degree or bootcamp specialising in AI. This is where you will acquire the knowledge you need to truly become an expert in artificial intelligence.

As we have seen, artificial intelligence can be applied in many professional sectors. That is why the field of work for these experts is really broad and includes areas such as medicine, finance and education. Likewise, its applications in other fields, such as video games, sports and even ethics and logistics, make it an increasingly relevant specialisation.

Artificial intelligence is the future, and many people are already working in AI or studying to specialise and more easily qualify for one of the thousands of jobs currently in demand in the sector.