How to Get Into AI: What AI at Work Looks Like for Beginners

Getting into artificial intelligence (AI) may seem difficult, but it differs from traditional software and doesn't always require a technical background. There's no single path into the field, said David Humphreys, director of AI integration at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU).

Traditionally, careers in AI have stemmed from computer science degrees, but that's changing. As AI continues to evolve, so do the routes into the industry, he said.

While technical roles still require knowledge in computer science, Humphreys said, there’s growing room for people from humanities, communication or business backgrounds who bring different perspectives to how AI is used.

How Do You Begin a Career in AI?

Starting a career in AI depends on what part of the field you're interested in. Technical roles like machine learning or deep learning engineering require a strong foundation in computer science, math and statistics, Humphreys said.

If you're interested in developing AI systems, he said, then focusing on technical skills and programming fundamentals can be a strong place to begin.

But not every AI role requires building models from scratch. If you're more interested in how AI impacts people, fields like communication or sociology can one day be valuable starting points, he noted.

“You need to think about what part of AI interests you,” Humphreys said. “Is it using it? Is it making creative output with it? Is it using it to be more productive? Or is it actually building an AI from the ground up?”

If you’re still figuring out where you could fit, it may help to step back and ask: What is AI?

How is AI Used At Work?

While new and highly specialized roles in AI are emerging — such as AI and data scientists, AI software developers, and machine learning engineers — the impact of how AI is used at work extends far beyond technical job titles, said Bickford.

She noted that AI is increasingly influencing how work gets done in all industries. “The most important takeaway is that everyone benefits from understanding how to work with AI,” she said. “The future of work isn’t just about becoming a technical specialist, it’s about learning how AI can augment your skills, elevate your impact and help you solve problems in new ways.”

As AI becomes more integrated into everyday work, uniquely human skills play an even more important role in the workforce, according to Bickford. “Human strengths like communication, creativity, empathy and critical thinking become even more vital when paired with intelligent tools,” she said. “AI is opening doors to new careers, but more importantly, it’s expanding what’s possible within existing ones.”

What Are Some Examples of AI Career Paths?

AI career paths can take many forms.

Humphreys, for example, said he entered the AI field through a nontraditional path, earning his undergraduate degree in communication and journalism before attending graduate school for film. "My interest in technology and openness to learning new tools helped me shift into AI work," he said.

Most careers can use AI tools, according to Humphreys. "I would encourage career seekers to think about the type of work they would like to do and see how they can fit AI into that work, rather than the other way around," he said.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a helpful place to look when thinking about your AI career path (BLS PDF source). Its 2024–34 employment projections show which fields are expected to grow, and BLS research explains how AI technologies may affect the work done in those industries.

Based on that data, BLS noted several fields with strong or growing job demand where AI is already part of the work:*

Technology and Data Roles

BLS predicts continued demand for workers who build, manage and protect AI systems.* Beginners might look at roles such as data analyst, software developer, database administrator or cybersecurity analyst, which all involve working with data, code or system security.

Business, Finance and Operations

According to BLS, AI is increasingly used to sort information and automate routine tasks, while people are still needed to make decisions and advise clients.* Entry-level roles could include financial analyst, business analyst, operations analyst or accounting support roles that use AI tools for reporting and forecasting.

Professional and Technical Services

Demand for AI-related research and consulting is expected to grow, BLS noted.* Beginners might consider roles such as research analyst, technical consultant, systems analyst or project coordinator, which help organizations use AI tools in practical ways.

Engineering, Infrastructure and Energy

BLS research shows AI being used to improve design and efficiency, while demand for skilled workers remains strong.* Entry points may include engineering technician, energy analyst, technical support specialist or infrastructure data roles that support engineers and planners.

Healthcare Support and Data Roles

Healthcare job growth is driven mainly by population trends, while AI is increasingly used in the field to manage data and coordinate care, according to BLS.* Beginners might consider roles such as health data analyst, health informatics specialist, medical records specialist or healthcare operations roles that work with data systems.

How Can a Beginner Start Learning AI?

The best way to start learning AI is to experiment. Open a tool like ChatGPT and start getting familiar with it, Humphreys said. From there, you can explore free resources like YouTube tutorials or beginner-friendly courses online, he said.

“There’s a ton of free courses that are available,” said Humphreys. “I would encourage people to just play around with it.”

Getting comfortable with the tools is often more important than understanding every technical detail at the start, so don't be afraid to start small. You don’t need to be an expert to begin, Humphreys noted, just have an interest and a willingness to learn.

"Use it, read about it, ask it questions," he said. "By using these tools, new/early adopters will learn so much about how to 'translate' their thoughts and ideas into meaningful ways to engage with the AI platform."

Another way you can start learning AI is by exploring it through your own interests. Find ways to use AI with your hobbies, Mullen said.

“The more you connect AI to things you already enjoy, the easier it becomes to build real skills,” she said.

Can You Teach Yourself AI?

You can teach yourself AI, depending on what area you want to enter. For technical roles like building AI models, you’ll eventually need to learn coding, system architecture and other foundational knowledge, Humphreys said.

If you're looking for more structured learning, there are recognized AI courses that can give you knowledge about AI fundamentals, ethics and practice. For example, SNHU offers a generative AI microcredential for professionals.

But not every job in AI requires formal training. If you're interested in using AI tools rather than developing them, Humphreys said, self-guided learning through tutorials, articles and hands-on practice can be a good starting point.

Keep reading: Are Artificial Intelligence Courses Worth It?

How Do You Get Your First Job in AI?

To land your first job in AI, start applying and find a way to stand out. If your background is the same as hundreds of other applicants, it becomes harder to get noticed, Humphreys said.

You can stand out by combining your technical skills with experience in other fields, extracurriculars or different ways of thinking. These additions show you're adaptable and can apply AI in unique ways, he said.

Bickford suggested considering internships and AI certifications. "For AI-adjacent roles or positions where AI is being applied in an industry, recognized AI certifications are a great way to build foundational or intermediate knowledge and demonstrate your skills to employers," she said. "These credentials can help you gain the technical fluency needed to work effectively with AI tools."

As AI continues to reshape industries, employers may prioritize human-centered qualities that are harder for AI to replicate. "Judgment, empathy, interpersonal communication and contextual understanding remain essential for working effectively in teams, making decisions and applying AI responsibly in real-world settings," said Bickford. "Combining these uniquely human skills with AI knowledge is what will truly set you apart and make you successful in this evolving field."

If you stay curious and keep learning, said Humphreys, you will have a better chance at finding your place in the fast-moving field.

Bickford agreed. "AI itself is a strong career choice, but the real advantage comes from combining your passions with AI knowledge, positioning yourself in a niche where technology and your expertise meet to create meaningful, future-ready opportunities," she said.

*Cited job growth projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Actual salaries and/or earning potential may be the result of a combination of factors including, but not limited to: years of experience, industry of employment, geographic location, and worker skill.

Ollie Burkett '25G is a writer with a Master of Arts in English and Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.