How to level up in Gen AI
# AI and Generative AI: A Comprehensive Guide to Learning and Certification
## Introduction to AI and Generative AI
Welcome back to the channel! Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the world around us, from automating tasks to solving complex problems. In recent years, large language models (LLMs) have gained significant traction following the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022. This breakthrough has led to the introduction of buzzwords like LLMs, Transformers, Rag, and AI agents, all of which are collectively known as generative AI or gen AI. With technology evolving at an unprecedented pace, many individuals are eager to dive into this field and make their mark. However, in such a competitive space, having the right skill set has become increasingly important—and challenging.
## The Importance of Skill Sets in AI
Given the rapid advancements in AI, it is crucial to stand out from the crowd. Today, we will explore how you can gain a competitive advantage in this exciting and fast-moving field of AI. One way to showcase your skills is by building a portfolio of projects that highlights both the breadth and depth of your AI expertise. For this path, you’ll need intuition, persistence, drive, and consistency to follow through. Fortunately, there are ample project ideas and walkthroughs available on this YouTube channel.
## Learning Through Courses and Certifications
If you prefer a more guided approach to learning, education with instructors and a structured syllabus can serve as a beacon for acquiring new skills. While the creator of this video does not currently offer a course on AI, NVIDIA has crafted courses and certifications in generative AI, accelerated computing, and 3D simulation. These resources are designed by industry experts and provide a structured approach to learning.
NVIDIA has kindly agreed to provide a discount code for viewers of this channel, offering a 10% discount on their courses and certifications. Additionally, there is an opportunity to enter a giveaway to rent a free course or certification. For details on the discount code and how to participate in the giveaway, stick around until the end of the video.
## Benefits of Learning Through Courses and Certifications
Learning can be achieved through various modalities, such as reading, working on projects, listening to lectures, or podcasts. The advantage of crafting your own learning path is that you can tailor it to your needs. However, learning from a course or certification created by industry experts allows you to hit the ground running and apply your newfound knowledge immediately.
Courses and certifications from platforms like NVIDIA offer additional perks, such as access to tools, resources, and networking opportunities with their student base. It is also worth noting that NVIDIA provides free training for higher education students through their University Ambassador and teaching kits programs.
## Exploring NVIDIA’s Courses and Certifications
To explore NVIDIA’s courses and certifications, visit the NVIDIA certification link provided in the video description. You will find a total of four certifications:
1. **AI Infrastructure and Operations**: Ideal if you are more interested in hardware or infrastructure.
2. **InfiniBand**: Suitable for those focusing on high-speed networking.
3. **Generative AI and Large Language Models**: Perfect for those interested in the latest advancements in gen AI.
4. **Multimodal Gen AI**: Designed for those exploring AI across multiple modalities, such as text, image, and audio.
After selecting a certification that interests you, if you wish to take the exam, click on the link to assess your workspace environment. Detailed information about the requirements is available in the FAQ section at the bottom of the page.
## A Deep Dive into NVIDIA’s Generative AI Certification
Let’s take a closer look at NVIDIA’s Generative AI and Large Language Model certification. This certification is designed for professionals looking to gain expertise in generative AI, particularly in large language models. The exam consists of 50 questions, which you will have 60 minutes to complete. It is conducted online with remote proctoring, and the cost to take the exam is $135. Upon passing, you will receive a digital badge that you can share publicly.
The certification covers a wide range of topics, including:
- **Fundamentals of Machine Learning**: An introduction to machine learning and neural networks.
- **Prompt Engineering**: Techniques for crafting effective prompts to guide AI models.
- **Alignment Data Analysis Visualization Experimentation**: Methods for analyzing data, visualizing insights, and conducting experiments.
- **Data Preprocessing Feature Engineering Experiment Design Software Development**: Skills in preprocessing data, engineering features, designing experiments, and software development.
- **Python Libraries for Large Language Models**: An in-depth look at Python libraries relevant to LLMs.
- **Integration and Deployment**: Best practices for integrating and deploying large language models.
## Learning Paths for Different Roles
NVIDIA offers customized learning paths depending on whether you are a developer or an administrator. For developers, the focus is on accelerated computing, while for administrators, it involves managing servers and infrastructure. The certification also covers various domains, such as data science and gen AI, which are currently hot topics in the industry.
The learning path includes four major segments:
1. **Foundational**: Start with the “Gen AI Explained” course, a 2-hour self-paced fundamentals course that covers the basics of large language models and generative AI.
2. **Application**: Gain hands-on experience with courses like “Getting Started with Deep Learning.”
3. **Generative AI**: Dive deeper into topics such as prompt engineering, RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation), and diffusion models for image generation.
4. **Deployment**: Learn how to deploy large language model applications at scale.
## Course Availability and Costs
Some of the courses are self-paced and free, while others may incur a nominal fee or higher costs depending on whether they are live workshops led by instructors. All courses can be accessed with an internet connection, allowing you to learn at your own pace and convenience.
Upon completing the course, you will receive a certification badge that is digitally verified and sharable on platforms like LinkedIn. This recognition can help you stand out in the industry and enhance your career prospects.
## Conclusion and Giveaway
To get started, visit the NVIDIA website and explore their free courses. For example, the “Gen AI Explained” course is no-code and provides a high-level overview of generative AI. Logging in is straightforward—simply provide your email address to enroll.
As always, the best way to learn gen AI is by doing. So, dive into these resources, complete the courses, and enhance your skill set. For those interested in the giveaway, take a free self-paced course, document your progress with a photo, and submit it via the provided Google form. The winner will be selected, and the certification will be awarded.
In conclusion, whether you are building a portfolio of projects or pursuing structured education through NVIDIA’s certifications, there are ample opportunities to gain expertise in generative AI. Embrace this journey, stay curious, and enjoy the process of learning and growing in the field of AI.