I started learning Data Analytics seriously over the last few years and built skills in Power BI, reporting, dashboards, Microsoft Fabric, and operational analytics while working full-time. But despite applying to many jobs, I’m struggling to transition properly into the field mainly because I don’t have a formal college degree.
Now I’m thinking about moving towards AI Engineering and more technical roles instead of only analytics.
I wanted to ask people already working in AI/ML/software roles:
What skills should I learn first to realistically become employable as an AI Engineer?
What are the most important prerequisites before learning ML/AI deeply?
How strong should my Python, math, SQL, and cloud knowledge be?
Should I first focus on Data Engineering before AI?
Is it realistically possible to get good AI/engineering jobs without a degree if someone has strong practical skills and projects?
I’m willing to learn seriously and invest time into building projects and skills, but I want to follow the correct roadmap instead of learning randomly.
Would genuinely appreciate honest advice from people already working in the industry.
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