Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized industries, creating a surge in demand for AI expertise. While roles like data scientist and machine learning engineer often dominate the conversation, there’s a world of opportunities for individuals without a technical background. These roles contribute to the AI ecosystem by addressing its ethical, managerial, and societal implications or bridging the gap between technical teams and stakeholders.
If you’re intrigued by AI but lack programming skills or a STEM degree, this guide is for you. Let’s explore the non-technical roles in AI and the steps to break into them.
1. The Growing Demand for Non-Technical Roles in AI
AI has moved beyond research labs into businesses, healthcare, education, and entertainment. This mainstream adoption means organizations need professionals to:
- Coordinate AI projects.
- Ensure ethical and inclusive AI practices.
- Market AI products and services to diverse audiences.
For every technical professional building AI models, there’s a need for non-technical experts to ensure the technology aligns with business goals and societal values.
2. Key Non-Technical AI Careers
AI Project Manager
What They Do: AI project managers oversee projects involving AI systems, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with organizational objectives.
Key Skills: Communication, leadership, time management, and basic knowledge of AI concepts.
How to Start: Gain experience in project management or related fields. Familiarize yourself with AI terminology through online courses or certifications like Google’s Project Management Certificate.
Ethical AI Consultant or Policy Advisor
What They Do: Ethical AI consultants ensure AI systems are designed and deployed responsibly, mitigating biases, promoting inclusivity, and adhering to regulations.
Key Skills: Critical thinking, research, knowledge of AI ethics frameworks, and communication.
How to Start: Study ethics in AI through courses like Stanford’s “Ethics of AI” or research real-world case studies. Highlight your understanding of fairness and accountability in your resume.
AI Marketing Specialist
What They Do: These specialists craft marketing strategies to promote AI-powered products and services. They translate complex AI features into clear, engaging benefits for customers.
Key Skills: Storytelling, market research, and digital marketing.
How to Start: Build expertise in digital marketing. Pair this with a basic understanding of AI by completing free courses such as Andrew Ng’s AI For Everyone.
AI Trainer or Data Annotator
What They Do: AI trainers label data, creating high-quality datasets that AI models use to learn.
Key Skills: Attention to detail, understanding of data, and patience.
How to Start: Entry-level roles often require no prior experience. Platforms like Amazon Mechanical Turk or Appen offer freelance annotation opportunities.
AI Sales and Customer Success Roles
What They Do: These professionals help clients understand and adopt AI tools, ensuring their needs are met.
Key Skills: Relationship building, customer service, and problem-solving.
How to Start: Sales or account management experience is a plus. Learn how to explain AI concepts simply.
3. Breaking Into Non-Technical AI Roles
Step 1: Develop Foundational AI Knowledge
Even in non-technical roles, understanding AI basics is crucial. Free and low-cost resources include:
- Courses: “AI For Everyone” by Coursera or “Elements of AI.”
- Books: “AI Superpowers” by Kai-Fu Lee.
Step 2: Build Transferable Skills
Your existing expertise can often be adapted for AI roles. For example:
- Project managers can pivot to AI by understanding how projects involving machine learning differ.
- Marketers can focus on AI-powered tools and products.
Step 3: Gain Experience
Seek internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time roles that provide exposure to AI-related tasks.
Step 4: Network in the AI Space
Join communities, attend webinars, and engage with AI professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Participating in AI-related discussions shows your enthusiasm and helps you build connections.
Step 5: Customize Your Resume
Highlight skills and experiences relevant to your desired AI role. For example:
- Emphasize experience managing teams or projects when applying for project management roles.
- Showcase your ethical research for policy advisor positions.
4. Tools and Resources to Get Started
- Online Learning Platforms: Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer beginner-friendly courses.
- AI Communities: Join groups like Women in AI or participate in forums like AI Alignment.
- Books: “Prediction Machines” by Ajay Agrawal is a great primer on the business side of AI.
5. Why Non-Technical AI Roles Matter
AI’s power extends beyond algorithms. The real-world success of AI systems depends on the non-technical professionals who manage projects, address ethical concerns, and connect technologies to human needs. As AI continues to evolve, these roles will grow in significance, offering meaningful, impactful career opportunities.
The AI industry offers countless opportunities for non-technical professionals to make their mark. By gaining foundational knowledge, leveraging transferable skills, and networking within the field, you can launch a successful career in AI without ever writing a line of code.
Don’t let a lack of technical expertise hold you back—take the first step toward an exciting, rewarding career in AI today!
