As a University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Automation Engineering, I’ve spent the past 19 years working in the industrial sector. My career began as an automation engineer before I ventured into entrepreneurship, founding my own industry-focused business. However, in 2018, I felt a shift in the technological landscape and decided to pivot towards Python, data science, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Why the Switch to AI?
The decision to transition into AI wasn’t made lightly. With nearly two decades of experience in automation and industry, I recognized the transformative potential of AI. I firmly believe that AI will play an increasingly crucial role in shaping the future of industry, and I wanted to be at the forefront of this revolution.
IBM’s AI Foundations for Everyone: A Review
To bolster my AI knowledge and skills, I recently completed IBM’s “AI Foundations for Everyone” specialization on Coursera. This series consists of four courses:
- Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Generative AI: Introduction and Applications
- Generative AI: Prompt Engineering Basics
- Building AI Powered Chatbots Without Programming
While I’ve been working with AI for several years, these courses still offered valuable insights and new perspectives. Here are my key takeaways:
Comprehensive Overview
The specialization provides a solid foundation in AI concepts, covering everything from basic definitions to practical applications. It’s particularly useful for those new to the field, offering clear explanations of terms like Machine Learning and Deep Learning.
IBM Watson AI Services
One of the highlights was learning about various IBM Watson AI services. These tools can help businesses integrate pre-built AI capabilities into their solutions, potentially accelerating AI adoption across industries.
Hands-On Experience
The courses aren’t just theoretical. They include practical exercises, culminating in the creation and deployment of an AI-enabled chatbot on a website. This hands-on approach is invaluable for cementing learning and building confidence in working with AI tools.
Accessibility
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of this specialization is its accessibility. It’s designed to be understood by learners without a technical background, making AI more approachable for a wider audience.
Who Should Take This Specialization?
I highly recommend this course series to two groups of people:
- Non-Technical Professionals: If you’re interested in AI but lack a technical background, these courses offer an excellent entry point. They’ll give you the knowledge and skills to not just use existing AI products, but to potentially create your own.
- AI Practitioners: Even for those of us with experience in AI, this specialization offers value. It provides a systematic overview of AI concepts and introduces new tools and perspectives that can enhance our existing knowledge.
As I continue my journey from automation to AI, I’m excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. The IBM AI Foundations for Everyone specialization has reinforced my belief in the transformative power of AI and equipped me with new tools to harness that power. Whether you’re a seasoned tech professional or a curious beginner, I encourage you to explore this field. The future is AI-driven, and there’s no better time to start learning than now.
Johngai’s Tech Forge 