Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing field, and it's an excellent time to prepare for a career in AI in New Zealand. The country has seen significant growth in the AI industry, with many businesses adopting AI to tackle complex business problems, streamlining their processes and enhancing business performance. If you are interested in pursuing a career in AI here's how you can prepare for it. 1. Get a degree in computer science or related field The first step in preparing for a career in AI is to earn a degree in computer science or a related field. AI involves complex computer algorithms, statistical models, and mathematical concepts. Therefore, a strong foundation in computer science or related fields is essential. You can also apply for online courses which offer degrees in machine learning, data analysis, and AI programming. 2. Build a strong foundation in Mathematics Mathematics is an integral part of AI; being able to understand and execute complex mathematical operations are vital. It is essential to build a strong foundation in mathematics by studying calculus, linear algebra, probabilities, and statistics. Ensure to excel in these courses as they will be fundamental to your success in AI. 3. Gain practical experience in programming Having practical experience in programming is a vital skill when it comes to making a career in AI. Start by learning programming languages like Python, R, and MATLAB, and work on coding projects to develop coding skills. Participate in hackathons or open-source projects to refine your skills and collaborate with other developers. 4. Learn Machine learning and Deep learning Machine learning and deep learning are the two key concepts of AI, and you need to have good knowledge of these concepts to pursue a career in AI. Start by learning the basics of machine learning and deep learning, including decision trees, regression analysis, neural networking, convolutional neural networks (CNN) and long short-term memory (LSTM). Participate in machine learning challenges, Kaggle challenges to enhance your skills. 5. Be updated with the latest AI developments AI is an ever-evolving field, and It's essential to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry. Stay updated with academic research and technical blogs, join online AI communities, and attend AI conferences, events, and meetups. These activities will give you a better understanding, knowledge of the industry, and potential future trends. 6. Build a portfolio Creating a portfolio of your projects, work and research in AI can help to showcase your skills to potential employers. An AI portfolio will include a list of projects you have worked on, the code you have written, and the results you have achieved. The portfolio will give potential employers an insight into your practical skills, initiative, and creativity. Final thoughts Preparing for a career in AI in New Zealand requires a combination of theory and practical skills. Obtaining a degree in computer science, building your skills in mathematics, programming, and participating in practical AI projects is a good start. It's essential to stay updated with the latest developments in AI and build a portfolio of your work. With the growing demand for AI experts in New Zealand, it's an exciting time to enter the field and create a successful career.