Back-to-school usually means managing kids’ schedules and shopping for school supplies.
But with technology like Generative AI capturing the world’s imagination, many adults are looking to learn the latest tech skills this fall. And studies show this learning pays off – with a growing AI skills gap in Canada, workers with AI skills can earn over $100,000 more per year. So how can adults build AI skills without spending years in college or university?
The good news is there are tons of quick, fun and free courses for people of all ages to build today’s most in-demand tech skills.
Leading tech companies like Amazon Web Services (AWS) now offer programs directly to individuals, or through colleges and employers. From composing music on a keyboard to programming tiny race cars using AI and Machine Learning skills – today’s tech is a lot easier to learn than you think.
Check out free programs that let you have fun while learning:
AWS DeepComposer lets you create original music compositions while learning generative AI techniques. You can use a physical or a virtual keyboard to input melodies and harmonies, and then apply different musical styles like rock, pop, jazz, or classical.
AWS DeepRacer lets anyone, even beginners, program and race tiny autonomous vehicles to gain advanced Machine Learning techniques. It’s so popular that there are entire AWS DeepRacer leagues where you can compete for prizes and scholarships.
AWS DeepLens lets you learn the basics of machine learning with a wireless video camera. Using a technique called computer vision, you can build real-world projects that allow the camera to analyze and act on what it sees.
All of these programs offer a free trial or free tier to get you started on your AI journey.
Look for ‘micro credentials’ at your local college or online:
These short courses, designed to quickly teach new skills or upgrade existing ones, are more popular than ever. Micro-credentials provide industry-recognized certifications and 64% of employers see them as a valuable sign of a job seeker’s commitment to learning.
AWS Skill Builder offers quick and easy access to over 500 free, on-demand digital courses on various topics, including Generative AI.
Check with your employer:
Many companies, like BMO and SunLife, have partnered with AWS to offer custom courses to help employees increase their digital skills.