In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) stand as pillars of innovation, reshaping industries and revolutionising the way we live and work. From healthcare to transportation, and education to environmental conservation, the applications of AI/ML are boundless, offering unprecedented opportunities for efficiency, personalisation, and sustainability.Indiatoday.in spoke to Ansh Shankar, B.tech CSE with AIML who will share his journey to the profound impact of AI and ML across various sectors, uncovering the transformative potential that these technologies hold for the future.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the field of AI and Machine Learning? Was there a specific moment or experience that ignited your passion for this domain?
My passion for AI and Machine Learning was sparked during my undergraduate studies at Galgotias University, where I was exposed to the transformative potential of these technologies through various courses and projects. A specific moment that solidified my interest was during my first internship at Infosys, where I got to apply machine learning techniques to real-world data, seeing firsthand the impact and efficiency it brought.
How do you envision the role of AI/ML evolving in fields like healthcare, transportation, education, or other sectors?
I envision AI and ML continuing to revolutionize industries by making processes more intelligent and efficient. In healthcare, AI could personalize patient care and improve diagnostics. In transportation, it could enhance the safety and efficiency of autonomous vehicles. For education, AI can provide personalized learning experiences and help bridge the educational divide by making quality resources accessible to all.
You have published and presented research papers at prestigious conferences like IEEE. Can you explain the motivation behind this project and its potential real-world applications?
The motivation behind my research projects, presented at conferences like IEEE, often revolved around addressing real-world challenges or pushing the boundaries of existing technology. For example, one project might improve the accuracy of sentiment analysis for social media data, with applications in market research and customer feedback analysis. My research on “Plastic Detection using Satellite Image Analysis” was motivated by the urgent need to address environmental pollution. Seeing numerous sustainability projects on campus deepened my commitment to solving real-world environmental and climate issues. Utilising AI to analyse satellite imagery can identify plastic accumulations in remote areas, supporting cleanup efforts and providing data for environmental policy changes. This project, presented at the IEEE conference, has potential applications in environmental monitoring and conservation strategies.
Galgotias University is known for its focus on emerging technologies. How did the university’s emphasis on practical learning and industry exposure prepare you for your internships and research work?
Galgotias University’s emphasis on experiential learning and industry exposure has been pivotal in preparing me for internships and research work. Through strategic partnerships with industry leaders, the university has bridged the gap between academia and industry seamlessly. Aligning curriculum with industry demands, organizing workshops, training sessions, internships, projects, competitions, expert talks, and mentor-mentee models have all contributed to a holistic approach. This 360-degree strategy ensures that students are well-equipped with practical skills and industry insights, enabling us to excel in internships and research endeavors. The hands-on experience gained through these initiatives has not only honed our technical abilities but also instilled confidence to tackle real-world challenges effectively.
Your project on “Plastic Detection using Satellite Image Analysis” sounds intriguing. Can you elaborate on the motivation behind this project and its potential real-world applications?
The motivation behind this project stemmed from the global challenge of plastic waste management. By using AI to analyze satellite images, we can detect and monitor plastic waste in water steam. This technology not only aids in efficient waste management but also helps in assessing the effectiveness of the policies implemented to combat plastic pollution.
Can you share any memorable experiences or learnings from your internships at companies like Infosys, Tata Power, and Amazon?
One standout moment during my internship at Infosys was diving into the world of machine learning optimization for their result analysis system. The sheer scale of data challenged me to think creatively, pushing the boundaries of efficiency and scalability. It was like stepping into a tech thriller, where every line of code felt like a scene in a blockbuster movie. Seeing my solutions in action and witnessing their real-world impact was an unforgettable rush. It’s these moments that fuel my passion for innovation and drive me to push beyond limits.
How many companies visited the campus for placements, specifically in AI/ML or related domains? How many placement offers did you receive in total, and from which companies?
During my final year at Galgotias University, we witnessed many tech giants and startups visit the campus. Companies from various industries hired for AI/ML recognizing the technologies’ broad applicability beyond traditional tech firms. I was fortunate to receive multiple job offers from esteemed companies such as Celebal, Happiest Minds Technologies, and Mai Labs Private Limited, which provided many opportunities to start my professional career.
Looking ahead, what are your future goals and aspirations? What advice would you give to aspiring students who want to make a mark in the field of AI and Machine Learning, considering the competitive nature of this domain?
My future goals revolve around continuing to contribute to the advancement of AI and Machine Learning, whether through research, industry projects, or educational initiatives. For aspiring students, I would advise cultivating a strong foundation in mathematics, programming, and problem-solving, while also staying curious, adaptable, and open to continuous learning. Networking, participating in relevant projects and competitions, and seeking mentorship can also greatly enhance one’s prospects in this competitive field.