Pivoting My Tech Journey: From Cloud Engineering to AI/ML Engineering

Sometimes, the most important decisions aren’t planned — they find you when you least expect them.

The Spark of Curiosity

There I was, comfortably settled into my Cloud Boot Camp journey, methodically working through modules on infrastructure management, scalability, and cloud architecture. My path seemed clear: become a Cloud Engineer, land a solid role at a tech company, and build my career from there.

Then came that pivotal introductory session on AI and Machine Learning. I attended my regular Saturday lab session when the instructor announced a break from our usual cloud curriculum.

We would have the opportunity to explore the excitement surrounding another area of the tech world. I anticipated it would be interesting, but I didn’t expect the immediate spark it would ignite.

As the presenter discussed the fundamentals of practical applications of AI in everyday technology, I felt a sense of realization. I leaned forward in my seat, making mental connections to problems I had always wanted to solve. The evolving landscape of machine learning engineering truly captivated my attention.

The Internal Debate

I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I opened my laptop and began researching more about AI/ML career paths, their intersection with cloud technologies, and the learning journey to get there.

“But I’ve already started my Solutions Architect curriculum,” I argued with myself. “Shouldn’t I just finish what I started? I can always pick up AI certifications later.”

The more I tried to focus on my Solutions Architect coursework, the more my thoughts wandered toward the exciting possibilities in AI.

I browsed job boards and noticed the growing demand for engineers skilled in machine learning pipelines, model deployment, and AI infrastructure.

Additionally, I saw my LinkedIn timeline becoming increasingly filled with articles and posts about Cloud Engineering and Solutions Architecture.

If my articles are any indication, I’ve always been one to go against the grain.

I spent days weighing my options:

“Cloud computing has a more established path.”

“But AI is where my passion is drawing me.”

“I’ve already invested so much time in cloud engineering.”

“But wouldn’t it be wiser to pivot now rather than later?”

Making the Leap

After reflecting on my career aspirations in technology, I realized where I wanted to focus my efforts. The enthusiasm I felt while learning about AI wasn’t just a fleeting interest but genuine excitement about the problems and solutions in that field.

I came to an important realization: the knowledge I had gained in cloud computing would not go to waste. Understanding cloud infrastructure is crucial for an AI/ML engineer who needs to deploy models at scale.

My journey had not been a detour; it had been the foundation I didn’t even realize I needed. I officially changed my learning path from Cloud Engineering to AI/ML Engineering.

The Road Ahead

Is it scary to pivot midway? Absolutely. There’s always that voice questioning whether I’m making the right choice or should I have just “stuck it out” with my original plan.

However, another voice — the one that lights up when I discuss neural network architectures or how AI can solve real-world problems — is much louder now.

I’m excited about what lies ahead. AI and machine learning are evolving at breakneck speed, with new advancements appearing weekly. The opportunity to be part of this evolution, to build systems that can learn and adapt, and to work on technology that increasingly shapes our digital and physical worlds is a journey worth pursuing.

A Note to Fellow Tech Travelers

If you’re in a boot camp or learning program and feel drawn to a different specialization than the one you initially chose, it’s perfectly fine to reconsider your path. Technology fields are interconnected, and your knowledge is rarely wasted — it simply adds to your unique perspective.

Ask yourself: When do you feel most engaged? Which problems make you lose track of time? Where does your curiosity naturally lead you?

Sometimes, the most fulfilling career isn’t the one you initially planned but the one you discover along the way.

I’m embracing this new direction wholeheartedly. While cloud engineering provided me with a strong foundation, AI and machine learning are calling me, and I’m finally ready to respond.

Have you ever made a significant pivot in your learning or career journey? I would love to hear about your experience in the comments below.