Starting A Career in Machine Learning?

Machine learning has emerged as one of the most promising technologies in the past decade. With AI and Deep Learning, machine learning assists organizations to meet every market change. That is why the machine learning market amassed a whopping 1.58 billion dollars in 2017. 

Experts expect the machine learning industry to grow by 44.06%, reaching 20.83 billion dollars by 2024. Such numbers are evidence enough to showcase the technology’s upcoming growth, making it an ideal space for millions of candidates globally.

 

 

 

However, merely knowing machine learning’s potency will not help you land a job in the industry. Since machine learning is a sophisticated technology, organizations look for highly adept candidates with multiple skillsets.

This sparks a prevalent question among candidates globally. Can you get started with a machine learning crash course to master these skills? The article will answer the question while presenting new information needed to start your machine learning career.

 

What is Machine Learning?

ML or Machine Learning is the technology that allows “machines” to “learn” from past data and experience.

Machine learning is considered a part of AI as it enables inanimate objects to learn new concepts. It develops algorithms for machines, allowing them to learn from real-world patterns and data to make educated predictions. It involves three major steps - data gathering, pattern identification, and finally, pattern prediction.

 

Which Industries are Using ML?

Despite being a relatively new technology ML has crawled into many industries. Here is an overview of some with machine learning’s use-cases:

• Social Networking: Social networking platforms use machine learning to find compatible matches.
• Healthcare: Several hospitals and clinics predict patient diagnostics for a medical review.
• eCommerce: The eCommerce industry uses machine learning to find patterns in customers’ spending tendencies.
• Finance: Machine learning is helping the financial sector predict fraudulent activities on credit cards.
• Biology: Machine learning assists scientists in finding gene mutation patterns that could prevent fatal diseases like cancer. 

 

How Does Machine Learning Work?

Anyone who has been even remotely interested in ML must have asked how exactly does machine learning work? In fact, some go as far as to take a Machine Learning crash course to understand it. 

The fundamental concept behind machine learning emerges from humans’ learning capabilities with slight modifications. We possess the ability to learn from experience, and similarly, machines can be taught to assess past data to curate meaningful predictions.

Machine learning replicates the ability by developing models and algorithms that generalize the provided data. It involves studying and assessing the data to dish predictions.

In most cases, the format and origin of the data do not matter since machine learning can process Big Data. For machines, data sources are mere examples, which they can choose from.

 

Types of Machine Learning

ML falls into three major categories – supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. Here is an overview of all three:

 

Supervised Learning

It involves machine learning based on previously labelled data. For example, using machine learning to distinguish a car’s image from a train’s image is supervised learning.

In the process, programmers insert tags or labels to facilitate quality and effectiveness within data.

 

Unsupervised Learning

The learning method does not involve tags and previous instructions to work efficiently. Instead, it involves machines getting a huge pile of data regarding an item’s characteristics, like dimensions and shapes. Then, it allows machines to determine the object’s nature based on the data it has collected.

 

Reinforcement Learning

The method can be easily explained as “trial and error.” It involves machines learning about multiple situations and the results. After goal setting, machines have to formulate new ways to reach it. Thus, they find the most effective patterns and repeat them until foolproof.

 

 

 

How to Start a Career in the ML Sector?

Building a career in the ML industry can be difficult. The space is full of new terms and concepts, making it hard for candidates to start without prior knowledge. That's why many enrol for a machine learning crash course before even entering the sector. Such courses help candidates understand several factors that can affect their chances of getting started. Some of these factors include:

 

Understanding the Prerequisites

The ML industry requires the candidate to possess at least surface-level knowledge of various subjects like algebra, calculus, statistics, and Python.

If needed, candidates can opt for other languages like Scala or R. However, learning a programming language with a vast library provides the required initial boost.

 

Practising Different ML Concepts

After completing the perquisites, candidates should learn critical ML concepts. Basic terminologies and types of methods are the starting point for this stage. Afterwards, candidates must understand and practice actual machine learning activities, like data collection, cleaning, processing, and integration.

Trying different models on real datasets is ideal for getting on-hand experience for the candidates. Another way to learn is by enrolling in a machine learning crash course or participating in competitions to hone skills.

 

Applying for New Opportunities

The final step to building a career in the machine learning sector is to apply for new positions. It does not hurt to start with a low-paying job to add real-world knowledge and experience to the portfolio. Then, as candidates gain experience, they can aim for more complex and better-paying roles.

 

Conclusion

Machine learning holds major significance in the modern market, with many big organizations equipping the technology. As the sector offers esteemed earning and growth prospects, candidates are drawn to the industry. However, given its sophisticated nature, entering the market can be challenging.

The article has specified the basic information needed to enter the industry. Therefore, implement the information and enter the industry with apt preparation. 

 

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