Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) is the current, future discipline fostering the next generation of Computer Science, Networking, Cloud and High Performance Computing environments.  A.I. encompasses machine learning, deep learning, image recognition, ray tracing, VR, simulation, natural language processing, autonomous machines (vehicles, robots, factory), RPA (digital Robot Process Automation), blockchains and Data Science.  Artificial Intelligence is being universally applied across all industries at an unprecedented pace.  This is one field that literally effects all others and needs every level of entry personnel.

TSI testing required prior to first enrollment for all AAS degrees and Level II certificates.

The AAS in Artificial Intelligence provides a “State-of-the-Art” introduction to most all aspects of Intelligent Technologies (ranging from IIOT/Edge – Cloud – High Performance Computing.  The Artificial Intelligence AAS is packed with the very latest information, case studies, “hand’s-on-models/labs” and connections/references to the world’s leading Companies and Practitioners.  The goal of the program is to provide a real-world sampling of exactly what it takes to participate professionally in Artificial Intelligence.  This may be the finest AI “Best Practices” preparation program available, built so you can properly choose your next move.

The World Economic Forum, for example, predicts AI may lead to a net increase of 58 million jobs globally.

No matter what the new AI economy means for the future workforce, college students and young professionals stand to benefit from entering this burgeoning field. But breaking into artificial intelligence isn't as simple as learning computer science or earning a college degree. It takes initiative, guts, and know-how to engineer a career in AI. In fact, more than half of senior AI professionals report there is a skills gap in the recruitment of new scientists — a veritable "talent crisis," according to an Ernst & Young report.

The most successful AI professionals often share common characteristics that enable them to succeed and advance in their careers. Working with artificial intelligence requires an analytical thought process and the ability to solve problems with cost-effective, efficient solutions. It also requires foresight about technological innovations that translate to state-of-the-art programs that allow businesses to remain competitive. Additionally, AI specialists need technical skills to design, maintain and repair technology and software programs. Finally, AI professionals must learn how to translate highly technical information in ways that others can understand in order to carry out their jobs. This requires good communication and the ability to work with colleagues on a team.  Problem Solving, technical communication (written/verbal), verification skills, project management, cost benefit analysis capabilities, multi-level  security awareness and delegation skills are just a few of the skills required in Artificial Intelligence.

 Automation, robotics and the use of sophisticated computer software and programs characterize a career in artificial intelligence (AI). Candidates interested in pursuing jobs in this field require specific education based on foundations of math, technology, logic, and engineering perspectives. Written and verbal communication skills are also important to convey how AI tools and services are effectively employed within industry settings. To acquire these skills, those with an interest in an AI career should investigate the various career choices available within the field.

Dan Ayoub, General Manager for mixed reality education at Microsoft.

Ayoub suggests that reviewing individual job postings on LinkedIn will give you an idea of the types of roles available and the skills required. This is especially important given the variety of languages, tools, and frameworks needed for artificial intelligence jobs. While not an exhaustive list, below are some examples of skills that can help candidates check off all the right boxes in a job posting.

• Programming Languages: Python, Java, C/C++, SQL, R, Scala, Perl
• Machine Learning Frameworks: TensorFlow, Theano, Caffe, PyTorch, Keras, MXNET
• Cloud Platforms: AWS, Azure, GCP
• Workflow Management Systems: Airflow, Luigi, Pinball
• Big Data Tools: Spark, HBase, Kafka, HDFS, Hive, Hadoop, MapReduce, Pig
• Natural Language Processing Tools: spaCy, NLTK

Examples of specific jobs held by Ai professionals include:

• Software analysts and developers and programmers
• Computer scientists, computer engineers, cyber security specialists
• Algorithm specialists, Data Scientists, Data Engineers,  Data Researchers
• Research scientists, engineering consultants, Cloud Computing Specialists
• Mechanical engineers and maintenance technicians.
• Manufacturing and electrical engineers. Software analysts and developers.
  Algorithm specialists.
  Research scientists, Engineering consultants, Robotic process automation
  Mechanical engineers, maintenance technicians, Call Center/Help Desk Process Automators
  Manufacturing, electrical engineers, Edge Computing Platforms
  Surgical/healthcare technicians working with robotic tools.
  Medical health professionals working with artificial limbs, prosthetics, hearing aids and vision restoration devices.
  Military and aviation electricians working with flight simulators, drones and armaments.
  Graphic art designers, digital musicians, entertainment producers, textile manufacturers and architects.

The estimated annual job openings is approx. 3,000+ jobs a year.

• Median Wages - $79 hourly, $92,000 - $150,000 annually.
• Job Roles and the shift from Computer Software Developers to Ai Developers.

The proposed degree program for Artificial Intelligence will prepare students for the following entry‐ level job roles:

• A.I. Application Developer
• A.I. Software Architect
• Artificial Intelligence Developer (software)

These new job roles are remarkably similar to Software Developers, (SOC 15‐1132) Computer and Information Research Scientists (SOC 15‐1111) and Computer Occupations All Other (SOC‐15‐1199). With more training or an AAS Award in Artificial Intelligence, newly trained can qualify for jobs and existing software developers who would like to increase their pay can benefit equally as well.  Because there is an acute labor shortage one group does not detract from the other group. If you are computer-based tech, the high paying jobs await you.