Google Engineer Shares Urgent Tips for Transitioning to AI Roles

UPDATE: A 26-year-old Google engineer, Maitri Mangal, reveals her urgent journey from software engineering to an AI role at Google, emphasizing the need for upskilling in today’s tech landscape. Mangal’s year-long transition highlights critical strategies that can help aspiring tech professionals pivot into the booming field of artificial intelligence.

In a rapidly evolving tech industry, Mangal’s story underscores why professionals must adapt NOW. With AI becoming a dominant force in tech discussions, her insights serve as a timely guide for anyone looking to make a similar career shift.

Mangal spent about seven months learning about AI before actively pursuing new roles within Google. “Creating content motivated me to keep learning and also made me confident about sharing what I knew,” she stated. This approach not only solidified her understanding but also helped build a personal brand that is crucial in the competitive job market.

Starting in January 2024, after months of dedicated study, Mangal began applying to AI teams. By March 2024, she successfully transitioned to the Workspace AI team, demonstrating that focused effort can yield rapid results. “If I was going to spend so much time upskilling, I should make the most of it,” she explained.

Mangal dedicated around two hours daily to upskilling through online courses and practical projects. She recommends leveraging platforms like Coursera and taking Google’s internal courses, which offer foundational knowledge in AI. “The easiest way to start is by taking the basics of AI, like Google’s Introduction to Generative AI,” she advised.

Creating content on platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn also played a vital role in her learning process. By sharing her knowledge, she engaged with a community that encouraged her to delve deeper into complex topics. “Talking to friends or teammates who are excited about AI also helps me better understand the material,” Mangal noted.

For those just starting their tech careers, Mangal emphasizes the importance of hands-on projects. “Take courses about AI, but keeping up-to-date with the news and doing AI projects also really helps,” she said. Many AI courses incorporate mini projects that allow learners to apply their skills in real-world scenarios.

Despite her internal application, Mangal still had to present a detailed résumé highlighting her side projects. “I think that really helps,” she stated, indicating that showcasing practical experience can significantly boost one’s chances of landing a desired role.

As the tech industry continues to embrace AI, Mangal’s experience serves as a critical reminder: adaptability and continuous learning are essential. For anyone looking to join the AI revolution, her advice is clear: start learning NOW and use every opportunity to engage with the technology.

Stay tuned for more updates on career strategies in tech as the landscape evolves!