Amazon Web Services (AWS) has recently introduced two new certifications aimed at empowering professionals to excel in the rapidly growing fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML).
The certifications, AWS Certified AI Practitioner and AWS Certified Machine Learning Engineer – Associate, are designed to validate the skills and knowledge of professionals in various roles, from business and sales to IT and engineering.
In this blog, I will delve into the details of these certifications, their significance, and their benefits to professionals and organizations.
Certification Overview
The AWS Certified AI Practitioner certification is a foundational-level certification that focuses on understanding AI and ML concepts and recognising opportunities that benefit from AI and using AI tools responsibly. This certification is ideal for professionals familiar with AI/ML technologies on AWS but do not necessarily build AI/ML solutions on the platform. The certification is designed to be vendor-neutral, making it accessible to professionals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. More details
On the other hand, the AWS Certified Machine Learning Engineer – Associate certification is designed for individuals with at least one year of experience building, deploying, and maintaining AI and ML solutions on AWS. This certification validates an individual’s skills in developing, deploying, maintaining, and monitoring AI, ML, and generative AI solutions. More details
Purpose and Significance
Introducing these certifications is a significant step forward in the AI and ML landscape. With the increasing demand for AI and ML skills, these certifications aim to bridge the gap between the supply and demand of skilled professionals. By earning these certifications, professionals can demonstrate their expertise and enhance their career prospects, leading to higher salaries and better job opportunities.
According to a study commissioned by AWS, organizations are willing to pay a premium for professionals with AI skills. For instance, IT professionals with AI skills can expect a 47% higher salary, while those in sales and marketing can expect a 43% higher salary. Similarly, professionals in finance can expect a 42% higher salary, and those in business operations can expect a 41% higher salary.
Preparation and Exam Details
To prepare for these certifications, AWS offers a range of training resources, including free foundational cloud courses and AI foundational training. The AWS Certified AI Practitioner beta exam will be available to schedule starting August 13, 2024, and the exam duration is 120 minutes with 85 questions. The exam format includes multiple-choice and multiple-response questions, and the cost is $75 USD.
Comparison with Other Certifications
The AWS Certified AI Practitioner certification is distinct from other certifications in the AI and ML space. For instance, the Certified Artificial Intelligence Practitioner (CAIP) certification offered by CertNexus focuses on vendor-neutral, cross-industry knowledge of AI concepts and skills. While both certifications validate AI and ML knowledge, the AWS certification focuses on AWS-specific technologies and use cases.
The introduction of the AWS Certified AI Practitioner and AWS Certified Machine Learning Engineer – Associate certifications marks a significant milestone in the AI and ML landscape. These certifications offer professionals a unique opportunity to enhance their skills, demonstrate their expertise, and boost their career prospects. With the increasing demand for AI and ML skills, these certifications are poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry.
