Expert: George Moustris - 10/21/2003

Question
Dear Sir,

I am a young programmer. I have been programming database applications for almost 2 years and I know that I don't want to do database for the rest of my life. I found artificial intelligence is more interesting than ever.

What does it take to be an artificial intelligence programmer?
Does it need certification?
What kind of jobs that require artificial intelligence programming?

I would greatly appreciate your information.

Thank you.

Answer
Hello Frans

Since you have much experience in programming,you allready have an advantage for AI.On the other hand, AI is not about programming.This may seem paradoxicall but its quite true.AI is about algorithmic analysis and implementation.The implementation is programming,but the analysis is a very different thing.AI requires strong mathematical background and solid grasp of topics such as formal logic,signal analysis,pattern recognition control theory etc.AI is the discipline which deals with investigating new methods that make computers do old jobs at new(and better) ways.That would mean to make a computer "intelligent".Knowledge of programming is a must, but other things are required too.
Certification on AI is acquired through your diploma.Most computer science departments include topics on AI.A master's degree is of course another way(or even a Phd).
You could start doing your own reading on AI.But you must first decide want you want to do.You want to build applications that use AI or do research on AI?For the former, all you have to do is read,get acquainted with AI and start building applications.The only thing stoping you is your creativity.For the latter however, you need guidance and a lot of resources(knowledge,money,equipment). This can only be achieved in an institution where your overseeing professor will guide you through and provide you with all the necessities.
Best G.