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How can I break into the AI governance space?
I'm looking to transition into AI governance or an adjacent field (e.g., policy, safety). However, I've been living off savings and haven't worked in five years (I used to do Human Factors Engineering for a medical startup). Since then, I've become a voice hearer, where I sometimes hear violent voices telling me to assault people and developed an eye condition where once every week or so my eyes move uncontrollably up and remain there for ~20min (it's very embarrassing when around others). I just started paralegal courses last fall, began an AI ethics blog, wrote an AI book, and am now in BlueDot Impact's AI Governance course, which I love. Unfortunately I've been rejected by two AI governance fellowships so far and have been looking at internships at think tanks and government but am not sure if my Bachelors in Philosophy is good enough to break into this space. I'd prefer not to pay 100k for a Masters in Policy or the like unless it's really necessary. I know that b cavello broke into the space with a Bachelors in Economics simply by networking. Any suggestions would be appreciated, thanks!
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Patrick’s Answer
Breaking into the AI governance space, especially after a significant career gap and personal challenges, can feel daunting, but with the right strategy, determination, and leveraging of your current strengths, it is certainly achievable. Your background in Human Factors Engineering, your emerging expertise in AI ethics, and your commitment to self-education through courses like the BlueDot Impact AI Governance course and your paralegal studies already provide a strong foundation to build upon. Your experience writing an AI ethics blog and penning an AI book also speaks volumes about your passion and initiative—key qualities in this field.
AI governance is a multifaceted and rapidly evolving area that blends policy, ethics, safety, law, and technology. While it’s true that some positions may demand advanced degrees, many roles in AI governance, particularly those at the intersection of ethics and policy, are more flexible when it comes to formal education. Networking, as exemplified by figures like B Cavello, is a powerful tool in breaking into the space. Engage deeply with AI ethics communities—whether through social media, online forums, conferences, or even local meetups. Building relationships with professionals already in the field can open doors and help you understand the nuances of the industry, as well as provide access to opportunities that might not be publicly listed.
Given your philosophy degree, you already possess strong critical thinking and analytical skills, which are highly valued in AI governance. While it may feel like a Bachelors alone isn’t enough, many in this field have transitioned from diverse educational backgrounds, especially when combined with a demonstrable passion for AI and policy. Internships or fellowships, even if they are unpaid, can serve as valuable stepping stones and provide critical hands-on experience. Your experience in think tanks, government roles, or AI ethics organizations will be invaluable as it helps you build credibility and a portfolio that speaks to your growing expertise.
Consider targeting smaller organizations or startups focused on AI policy, ethics, or safety, as they may have fewer formal requirements and be more open to non-traditional backgrounds. Additionally, you might want to explore part-time or freelance opportunities that can offer flexibility and hands-on experience while continuing to pursue your interests in paralegal work and AI ethics.
Lastly, resilience is key. Overcoming challenges like voice hearing and your eye condition shows remarkable strength, and these personal experiences might offer unique insights into the human impact of AI systems, which could set you apart as a thought leader in the space. Your journey, while unconventional, could provide the very perspective that the AI governance field needs as it continues to grow and evolve. Keep leveraging your personal story, your skills, and the growing network you're building—success in this field will come with time, persistence, and continued learning.
AI governance is a multifaceted and rapidly evolving area that blends policy, ethics, safety, law, and technology. While it’s true that some positions may demand advanced degrees, many roles in AI governance, particularly those at the intersection of ethics and policy, are more flexible when it comes to formal education. Networking, as exemplified by figures like B Cavello, is a powerful tool in breaking into the space. Engage deeply with AI ethics communities—whether through social media, online forums, conferences, or even local meetups. Building relationships with professionals already in the field can open doors and help you understand the nuances of the industry, as well as provide access to opportunities that might not be publicly listed.
Given your philosophy degree, you already possess strong critical thinking and analytical skills, which are highly valued in AI governance. While it may feel like a Bachelors alone isn’t enough, many in this field have transitioned from diverse educational backgrounds, especially when combined with a demonstrable passion for AI and policy. Internships or fellowships, even if they are unpaid, can serve as valuable stepping stones and provide critical hands-on experience. Your experience in think tanks, government roles, or AI ethics organizations will be invaluable as it helps you build credibility and a portfolio that speaks to your growing expertise.
Consider targeting smaller organizations or startups focused on AI policy, ethics, or safety, as they may have fewer formal requirements and be more open to non-traditional backgrounds. Additionally, you might want to explore part-time or freelance opportunities that can offer flexibility and hands-on experience while continuing to pursue your interests in paralegal work and AI ethics.
Lastly, resilience is key. Overcoming challenges like voice hearing and your eye condition shows remarkable strength, and these personal experiences might offer unique insights into the human impact of AI systems, which could set you apart as a thought leader in the space. Your journey, while unconventional, could provide the very perspective that the AI governance field needs as it continues to grow and evolve. Keep leveraging your personal story, your skills, and the growing network you're building—success in this field will come with time, persistence, and continued learning.
Thank you!
Cody
Updated
Bright’s Answer
This is my take .
Breaking into **AI governance** with a background in **Philosophy** and **Human Factors Engineering** is definitely possible, even without a Master's degree. Here are some steps you can take to strengthen your path into this field:
1. **Leverage Your Unique Experiences**: Your background in **human factors** and your work in **AI ethics** is already valuable. Emphasize your **interdisciplinary knowledge**—understanding both technical and human-centered aspects of AI. Your **AI ethics blog** and **AI book** show initiative and thought leadership, which can set you apart.
2. **Networking**: Like b cavello, networking is key. Reach out to professionals in AI governance through LinkedIn, conferences, or webinars. Join AI ethics and policy-focused forums or groups. Engaging with others in the space can lead to mentorships, collaborations, or internship opportunities.
3. **Internships & Fellowships**: Continue applying for **internships** at think tanks, research institutes, or government agencies. **AI governance is an emerging field**, and many organizations value practical experience, even if it’s unpaid. Be persistent and consider leveraging your paralegal training to explore **policy research** roles related to AI safety and ethics.
4. **Showcase Your Work**: Keep building your **AI ethics blog** and share your insights. This not only demonstrates your knowledge but can position you as a thought leader. You can also contribute to open-source AI governance projects or publications.
5. **Online Courses & Certifications**: Continue your **AI governance course** with BlueDot Impact and consider certifications related to **policy analysis** or **AI safety**. These can help you build credibility without the high cost of a Master's.
6. **Build a Portfolio**: In addition to your blog and book, **write papers** or **case studies** that demonstrate your understanding of AI governance challenges. This can help you stand out to employers or fellowship programs.
By leveraging your current experience, focusing on **networking**, and continuing to **develop your expertise**, you can break into AI governance without needing to invest in an expensive Master’s degree.
Breaking into **AI governance** with a background in **Philosophy** and **Human Factors Engineering** is definitely possible, even without a Master's degree. Here are some steps you can take to strengthen your path into this field:
1. **Leverage Your Unique Experiences**: Your background in **human factors** and your work in **AI ethics** is already valuable. Emphasize your **interdisciplinary knowledge**—understanding both technical and human-centered aspects of AI. Your **AI ethics blog** and **AI book** show initiative and thought leadership, which can set you apart.
2. **Networking**: Like b cavello, networking is key. Reach out to professionals in AI governance through LinkedIn, conferences, or webinars. Join AI ethics and policy-focused forums or groups. Engaging with others in the space can lead to mentorships, collaborations, or internship opportunities.
3. **Internships & Fellowships**: Continue applying for **internships** at think tanks, research institutes, or government agencies. **AI governance is an emerging field**, and many organizations value practical experience, even if it’s unpaid. Be persistent and consider leveraging your paralegal training to explore **policy research** roles related to AI safety and ethics.
4. **Showcase Your Work**: Keep building your **AI ethics blog** and share your insights. This not only demonstrates your knowledge but can position you as a thought leader. You can also contribute to open-source AI governance projects or publications.
5. **Online Courses & Certifications**: Continue your **AI governance course** with BlueDot Impact and consider certifications related to **policy analysis** or **AI safety**. These can help you build credibility without the high cost of a Master's.
6. **Build a Portfolio**: In addition to your blog and book, **write papers** or **case studies** that demonstrate your understanding of AI governance challenges. This can help you stand out to employers or fellowship programs.
By leveraging your current experience, focusing on **networking**, and continuing to **develop your expertise**, you can break into AI governance without needing to invest in an expensive Master’s degree.
Thank you so much, Bright!
Cody
Updated
Aida’s Answer
There are several open source projects focused on AI governance that aim to ensure responsible and ethical use of AI technologies. Here are a few notable ones:
OpenDataology/Data-governance: This project provides an open source AI data governance framework designed to help organizations manage and maintain their data assets, ensuring data quality, consistency, and security. It includes features like risk assessment, authorization, and real-time monitoring1.
Data Governance in Open Source AI by Open Source Initiative (OSI): This initiative focuses on creating a robust, equitable, and sustainable data ecosystem for AI. It includes a white paper that outlines best practices and methodologies for responsible data sharing and governance2.
AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) by NIST: This framework, developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), provides guidelines for assessing and managing risks associated with AI systems. It's widely used as a reference for AI governance projects.
EleutherAI Institute: This organization focuses on open and ethical AI research and development. They provide resources and tools for AI governance and promote transparency and fairness in AI technologies.
Mozilla Foundation's AI Governance Projects: Mozilla has several initiatives aimed at promoting responsible AI development and use. They provide tools, guidelines, and resources for AI governance and advocate for ethical AI practices.
These projects and initiatives are part of a broader effort to ensure that AI technologies are developed and used in a way that benefits society while minimizing potential harms. If you're interested in contributing or learning more about these projects, you can find them on platforms like GitHub and the websites of the respective organizations. By participating in these open source projects, you get to work with engineers from various companies and establish a reputation that is impressive by how you engage with others, propose solutions, document and test solutions. As you gain confidence, you can register as a speaker for a few of the open source conferences which again raises your visibility and exposure.
OpenDataology/Data-governance: This project provides an open source AI data governance framework designed to help organizations manage and maintain their data assets, ensuring data quality, consistency, and security. It includes features like risk assessment, authorization, and real-time monitoring1.
Data Governance in Open Source AI by Open Source Initiative (OSI): This initiative focuses on creating a robust, equitable, and sustainable data ecosystem for AI. It includes a white paper that outlines best practices and methodologies for responsible data sharing and governance2.
AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) by NIST: This framework, developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), provides guidelines for assessing and managing risks associated with AI systems. It's widely used as a reference for AI governance projects.
EleutherAI Institute: This organization focuses on open and ethical AI research and development. They provide resources and tools for AI governance and promote transparency and fairness in AI technologies.
Mozilla Foundation's AI Governance Projects: Mozilla has several initiatives aimed at promoting responsible AI development and use. They provide tools, guidelines, and resources for AI governance and advocate for ethical AI practices.
These projects and initiatives are part of a broader effort to ensure that AI technologies are developed and used in a way that benefits society while minimizing potential harms. If you're interested in contributing or learning more about these projects, you can find them on platforms like GitHub and the websites of the respective organizations. By participating in these open source projects, you get to work with engineers from various companies and establish a reputation that is impressive by how you engage with others, propose solutions, document and test solutions. As you gain confidence, you can register as a speaker for a few of the open source conferences which again raises your visibility and exposure.
Updated
Lylyna’s Answer
In addition, you can take advantage of the following resources:
Free AI training from Microsoft, Google and DeepLearningAI.
Devpost hosts a lot of hackathon for students across the globe. It is away to try new things for free, build connection and networking.
Coursera and edx offer courses that you can audit for free. Once you complete the course, you have an option to upgrade for a certificate for a better price.
Udacity has partners with various organization to host scholarships. You can subscribe to newsletter for an update when the scholarship is available.
Keep going and it eventually comes to you.
Free AI training from Microsoft, Google and DeepLearningAI.
Devpost hosts a lot of hackathon for students across the globe. It is away to try new things for free, build connection and networking.
Coursera and edx offer courses that you can audit for free. Once you complete the course, you have an option to upgrade for a certificate for a better price.
Udacity has partners with various organization to host scholarships. You can subscribe to newsletter for an update when the scholarship is available.
Keep going and it eventually comes to you.