Companies around the world are working towards incorporating AI-led software solutions and in order to seamlessly transact businesses in AI, companies are scouting for talent that is skilled in programs and can efficiently work in the field of Artificial Intelligence.
India is at the cusp of an Artificial Intelligence revolution. A core indicator being the patent activity and filings, which has risen 10 times in 2018 as compared to 2012 (CSET Report March 2021). India is 8th on global rankings on the number of patent families related to AI, ahead of Russia and France. An increase in the spread and depth of the internet, data availability and economics and greater computing exposure and resources have been key to the increase in the rise of cutting edge AI algorithms.
COVID 19 pandemic also increased the integration of deep tech technologies across all large sectors like education, healthcare, finance, retail with more and more enterprises opting for AI-led interventions. In retail and enterprises, the adoption of AI has displayed the ability to transform the traditional method of generating outreach, inventory and even customer support. A recent study by PwC, reports India witnessing the highest increase in AI use compared to major economies like Britain, Japan and the US, with over 70 per cent of Indian organisations having implemented AI in some functional areas in 2020 as compared to around 62 per cent last year, making this the perfect time for India to also invest in deploying AI solutions that will aid enterprises by suggesting more efficient business strategies and insights.
Companies around the world are working towards incorporating AI-led software solutions and in order to seamlessly transact businesses in AI, companies are scouting for talent that is skilled in programs and can efficiently work in the field of Artificial Intelligence. Similarly, while in India, deploying and adoption remains an important aspect, the country also needs to pay attention to building talent that has the potential to efficiently work and understand the development and acceptance of AI in enterprise-led businesses.
Speedy adoption is an important part of India’s journey in the field of AI but building a stronger talent pool has become a need of the hour. The global AI tracker by MarcoPolo reported that 12% of the “elite” AI researchers have an undergraduate degree from Indian colleges. While there are students and people who already have experience in the field of data attempting to venture into the field of AI but they’re unable to as there is no clear direction.
While there is no single way to define AI talent, graduates with a degree in computer engineering and computer/data science are considered equipped for it. Attempting to simplify the journey and bridge the gap, here is a list of key skills that personnel should focus on in order to start their career in the field of AI:
Exceptional Programming Skills
One of the most important skills required to venture into the field of AI is to have a good grasp of the programming languages like Python, R, Java, and C++. These will aid in building cutting-edge and state of the art models and programmes for organisations
Superior understanding of Algebra, Calculus and Statistics
In order to understand concepts like gradient descent, a clear understanding of matrices, vectors and matrix multiplications comes in handy. Additionally, extensive knowledge about linear algebra, probability, and statistics also helps in implementing different AI models like Naive Bayes, Gaussian mixture models and lines discriminant analysis
Algorithms and Frameworks
To construct an efficient AI model with raw data, understanding deep learning algorithms like a convolutional neural network, recurrent neural network, and generative adversarial network is a necessity. PyTorch, Theano, TensorFlow, and Caffe. are also some of the frameworks used in AI.
Communication and Problem-solving Skills
When designing algorithms and software solutions, it becomes essential to also communicate the attributes in an effective manner, to a larger group of individuals. Algorithms are a new way of solving a business or life challenge and employers today look for a mix of problem solving skills in employees- decision making, collaboration and open mindedness.
Machine Learning Skills
Machine learning is the native programming language of any software or system in which the data and algorithms imitate and stimulate the way the human mind thinks. Having skills in the space of ML further facilitates the software in solving enterprise problems. Designing an effective machine learning program requires a lot of creativity and critical thinking and an approach towards the issues.
Scope of Trial and Error
An effective AI enterprise solution cannot be designed overnight. It requires continuous trials and tests and innumerable failures. Coping up with continuous trials and failures and yet not getting demotivated is another important skill set required. This patience and the ability to forge through continuous errors and coming up with creative bypass solutions for the critical error comes through experience.
Source: Business World
