Shaping the Future with AI: Insights from Vamsi - AI Data Lead

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a distant dream, it's the force driving innovation across industries today. But what does it really take to thrive in this fast-evolving field? Meet Vamsi, an AI Data Lead, whose journey from beginner to leader reveals how determination, continuous learning, and the right mindset can shape not just a career but the future of technology itself. His insights offer a real-world perspective on AI’s transformative power and the skills needed to stay ahead in this competitive landscape.

From Beginner to AI Lead: Q&A with Vamsi

In this Q&A, he shares his experiences, challenges, and insights to inspire aspiring data science and AI professionals.

Q1: Can you walk us through your journey from being a DataMites student to landing your current role?

I enrolled in DataMites during the COVID-19 period in 2021. Despite limited opportunities at the time, I completed the certification successfully. Interestingly, I didn’t apply directly for jobs. Instead, a fellow DataMites student referred me to a startup where I began my career. Initially, the company had only about 10 people, but it grew rapidly. Within two months, I was promoted to AI Data Lead, and I also received recognition as the Best Employee for two consecutive years. My journey has been full of growth and opportunities.

Q2: How was your learning experience at DataMites during COVID-19?

The sessions were conducted online, each lasting about three hours. Coming from an electronics background with no prior programming knowledge, I started from scratch. I learned Python, data science basics, and applied these skills to real-world problems. Despite challenges, the guidance from trainers and the support of peers helped me overcome my initial struggles with coding.

Q3: Was it difficult to learn Python and other programming skills without a coding background?

At first, yes. Python was completely new to me. But with proper guidance, peer discussions, and practice using resources like W3Schools, I gradually became confident. Assignments and group discussions played a major role in making learning smoother.

Q4: What was the study pattern like during your DataMites training?

We had structured sessions, followed by assignments. After each class, I would dedicate extra hours for self-study and practice. Group discussions with 15–20 peers were extremely helpful in solving problems together. Apart from Python, I also worked on SQL, machine learning concepts, and visualization tools like Tableau. These became the foundation for my professional career.

Q5: What topics or tools were most important for your data science career?

SQL and Tableau were crucial. SQL helps in extracting and filtering data from databases, which is a key requirement in any data role. Tableau is widely used for data visualization. Along with machine learning basics, mastering these two skills can help candidates secure high-paying jobs in the current market.

Q6: Can you share your interview experiences and challenges?

In interviews, most questions focused on the basics of SQL, machine learning, and visualization. They didn’t go too deep into advanced concepts but expected solid fundamentals. Sometimes, datasets were provided, and I had to explain how I would filter, structure, and extract insights. Tools like Azure and AI frameworks often come into play in real-world scenarios. Handling these challenges with practical examples helped me succeed.

Q7: Did the internship projects at DataMites help you in interviews?

Yes, absolutely. I worked on projects like clustering models and financial/banking sector projects. These gave me practical exposure to applying algorithms to solve business problems. Interviewers often asked about these projects, and I could confidently explain the real-world applications.

Q8: What does your day-to-day work as an AI Data Lead look like?

Currently, I manage a team of 12 people. We work with multiple clients, handling unstructured data in formats like PDFs, Excel files, and Word documents. Our role is to clean, pre-model, and structure the data into a format that clients need. We primarily use Azure, Excel, and ChatGPT for our tasks. While I don’t use Python much in my current role, it was essential in building my foundation.

Q9: What type of projects should students focus on to attract recruiters?

Work on real-time projects, especially in the financial sector. Financial and banking-related projects are in high demand because every company deals with numbers, transactions, and predictions. Projects like clustering models, fraud detection, and financial forecasting not only strengthen your resume but also help in interviews.

Q10: Did mock interviews and DataMites support help you?

Yes, although I attended fewer mock interviews, the Q&A sessions provided by DataMites were extremely useful. They regularly updated us with potential interview questions, which helped me prepare better and gain confidence.

Q11: What advice would you give to aspiring data science learners?

First, identify why you are choosing data science whether for career growth, financial opportunities, or passion. Second, focus on building domain knowledge because it is equally important as technical skills. Lastly, stay consistent with practice, complete assignments, and actively collaborate with peers. If you learn SQL, Tableau, and machine learning basics well, you can easily build a successful career in this field.

Vamsi’s Key Insights on Building a Career in Artificial Intelligence

Vamsi, an AI Data Lead, shares key insights from his journey to guide aspiring professionals toward a successful career.

• Career Growth – Vamsi transitioned from being a DataMites student during COVID-19 to becoming an AI Data Lead within two months, also earning recognition as Best Employee for two consecutive years.
• Learning Journey – Coming from an electronics background with no coding experience, he successfully learned Python, SQL, machine learning, and Tableau through structured training, assignments, and peer support.
• Overcoming Coding Challenges – Initially struggled with Python but overcame difficulties by using resources like W3Schools, regular practice, and group discussions.
• Effective Study Pattern – Consistent self-study, peer collaboration, and project work played a key role in mastering core data science skills.
• Most Valuable Skills – SQL and Tableau were highlighted as the most crucial tools for building a strong career in artificial intelligence, along with machine learning fundamentals.

Vamsi’s journey is a powerful example of how determination, structured learning, and peer support can transform a beginner into a successful data science professional. Coming from a non-programming background, he rose to become an AI Data Lead, proving that with the right training and persistence, anyone can thrive in this dynamic field. The global artificial intelligence market, valued at USD 279.22 billion in 2024, is projected to soar to USD 1,811.74 billion by 2030, growing at a remarkable CAGR of 35.9% between 2025 and 2030, according to Grand View Research.

Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries across India, and Ahmedabad, with its strong industrial base, thriving textile sector, and expanding IT ecosystem, is no exception. What was once seen as a global trend has now become a local reality in Ahmedabad. From textiles and manufacturing to smart city governance and healthcare, the adoption of AI is making processes smarter, faster, and more efficient. With the growing demand for skilled professionals, pursuing an artificial intelligence course in ahmedabad is becoming a popular choice for students and professionals aiming to build future-ready careers.

DataMites offers a comprehensive Artificial Intelligence course in Pune, designed to equip learners with the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Datamites Courses are accredited by globally recognized bodies, including the IABAC and NASSCOM FutureSkills, ensuring industry-aligned training and credibility. DataMites conducts AI training in key areas of Pune, such as Baner and Kharadi, providing easy and convenient access for students across the city.