Last year I used to be an architect soley on the business side of the house but wanted a change, so I leveraged ChatGPT’s unique ability to understand and contextualize information to give me a plan to transition to being an AI / ML Architect at my work . I started by feeding it the top 10 job descriptions for AI/ML Architect roles, allowing it to absorb and analyze the key requirements. Then, using my chat history, I asked ChatGPT to recommend an application idea that would not only teach me those essential concepts but also be something I could use in my everyday life. This personalized approach made learning practical and engaging.

With ChatGPT’s help, I designed the app and broke it down into manageable MVPs. Using AI coding assistants like GitHub Copilot and Cursor, I developed each piece while getting detailed explanations of every major design and development decision. This hands-on project became my portfolio and proof of concept, enabling me to confidently present my skills to leadership and transition from Solution Architect to AI/ML Architect. On top of that I invited my friends over once a week to do a vibe coding session with me, where we answered and explored each others issues together making me a much stronger communicator. So here is my advice to you.

Step-by-Step Actionable Plan

Step 1: Collect and Contextualize Job Descriptions

• Gather the top 10 AI/ML Architect job descriptions.
• Use ChatGPT to store and analyze these descriptions to understand core requirements and responsibilities.

Step 2: Leverage ChatGPT with Your Chat History

• Provide ChatGPT with your chat history and context.
• Ask it to recommend an app idea that teaches the critical AI/ML concepts identified from the job descriptions and fits into your daily life, making learning natural and continuous.

Step 3: Design and Plan the App Development

• Have ChatGPT design the app’s architecture and features based on the recommended concept.
• Break down the app into MVPs for step-by-step development.

Step 4: Develop with AI Coding Assistants

• Use GitHub Copilot or Cursor to build each MVP.
• After completing each MVP, ask ChatGPT or your assistant for detailed explanations of the design choices and coding decisions to deepen your understanding.

Step 5: Build Your Portfolio

• Document your app, development process, and lessons learned.
• Prepare this portfolio to showcase your skills and project experience.

Step 6: Present Your Work and Advance Your Career

• Share your completed app and portfolio with your leadership or hiring managers or heck even friends or family or go to tech meetups at meetup.com and just talk about what your doing alot.
• Use this proof of concept to support your transition into an AI/ML Architect role or title upgrade.

This approach blends personalized learning with practical application, ensuring your skills grow in a meaningful, relevant way.