Can You Become an AI Engineer
Without a CS Degree?
Yes. I don't have one. Neither do many successful AI engineers I know.
What matters is demonstrable skills and a portfolio that proves you can build production AI systems.
AI Native Engineer Community Access
Every Job Posting Says 'CS Degree Required.'
Is That Actually True?
You see 'Bachelor's in Computer Science required' on every AI job posting. It feels like a locked door.
You're told AI is all about math and theory. Without a degree, you worry you're at a fundamental disadvantage.
You've invested years in a different career. Going back for a 4-year degree isn't realistic.
Skills > Credentials. Here's What Actually Gets You Hired.
The AI Career Accelerator
I went from software tester to Senior AI Engineer at GitHub without a CS degree. Companies hire based on what you can do, not what piece of paper you have.
Build the Skills
Python, AI fundamentals, production systems. Learn what actually matters.
Prove It With Projects
A portfolio of deployed AI apps beats any credential
Position Strategically
Target companies that value skills over pedigree
Meet Your Mentor
When I started in tech, I was based in the Netherlands with no connections and only thousands of video game hours under my belt. Not exactly the ideal starting point.
My first tech job was software tester. One of the most junior roles you can start with. I was just happy someone took a chance on me.
I kept learning. Kept pivoting. But what actually accelerated my career wasn't more certifications or more code. It was learning to solve problems that matter and proving beyond a doubt that what I built solved real problems. That's the skill that stays future-proof, even with AI.
I've since worked remotely for international software companies throughout my career. Proof that the high-paid remote path is possible for anyone with the right skills and motivation. In the end, I went from a $500/month internship to 6 figures as a Senior AI Engineer at GitHub.
Becoming an AI-Native Engineer is a system I lived through and offer to you today.
Real Results
Vittor
AI Engineer
Landed his first AI Engineering role in 3 months
"The coaching played a huge part in my success. I focused on AI fundamentals, the certification path, and soft skills like professional writing. Having access to expert guidance gave me confidence during interviews and helped me feel I was on the right path.
I built my own platform (simple but functional) and deployed it on AWS. I used it in my portfolio and showcased it during interviews. The way complex topics were explained, especially the restaurant analogy for AI systems, really stuck with me. Focusing on doing the basics well was absolutely essential."
What You Will Get
Personalized Roadmap & Career Strategy
A custom plan tailored to your background, goals, and timeline. No generic advice.
Weekly 1:1 Coaching Calls
Direct access to Zen for guidance, project feedback, and answers to your questions.
Portfolio-Ready AI Projects
Build production-grade AI applications to showcase to employers. Work that gets you hired.
Interview Prep & Mock Interviews
Practice technical and behavioral interviews. Learn what hiring managers look for.
Resume & LinkedIn Optimization
Transform your online presence to attract recruiters. Stand out from other applicants.
Community Career Support
Join the AI Native Engineer community. Not seeing results yet? You stay and keep going. We're with you through the ups and downs.
While You Wonder If It's Possible, Others Without Degrees Are Getting Hired
Every month you delay can cost you thousands in lost earning potential. While you're watching tutorials, others are landing $120K+ AI Engineering roles.
I can only work with a limited number of 1:1 clients at a time to ensure you get the personalized attention you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can substitute for a CS degree in AI hiring?
A strong portfolio of production-ready AI projects. Hiring managers care about what you can build, not where you studied. 2-3 deployed AI applications demonstrating end-to-end skills (data handling, model integration, deployment) carry more weight than any degree. Add to that a clear explanation of your technical decisions, and you're competitive.
Do I need advanced math without a CS background?
Not for AI implementation roles. AI engineers use existing models and APIs. You don't need to derive gradients or prove theorems. Basic statistics and linear algebra concepts help, but you can learn these on the job. If you can understand what a function does, you can be an AI engineer. Leave the PhD-level math to the researchers.
Can I become an AI engineer by teaching myself?
Yes, but the path matters. Self-taught works when you focus on implementation over theory, build real projects instead of completing tutorials, and get feedback from practitioners. The trap is spending months on courses without building anything. Structured guidance from someone in the industry dramatically accelerates the self-taught path.
Do I need prior AI experience?
Not necessarily. While some programming experience is helpful, many of my clients have successfully transitioned from web development, data science, or other technical backgrounds. We'll assess your current skills during our strategy call and create a personalized plan that meets you where you are.
How much time do I need to commit?
Most clients invest 10-15 hours per week, but this can be flexible based on your schedule. We'll have weekly 1:1 calls plus time for you to work on projects and learning. The key is consistency. Regular, focused effort beats occasional marathons.
Can I do this while working full-time?
Absolutely. Most of my clients work full-time and make steady progress. We'll schedule calls at times that work for you and create a realistic plan that fits your schedule. Consistency matters more than intensity.
What if I don't land interviews in 90 days?
You become a member of the AI Native Engineer community, and you stay and keep going. Career transitions take different amounts of time for everyone, and I'm not going to abandon you if things take longer. You get ongoing support through good times and bad.
How is this different from online courses?
Online courses give you content. 1:1 coaching gives you a personalized roadmap, direct feedback on your work, career strategy, interview prep, and accountability. You get answers to your specific questions and guidance tailored to your unique situation instead of generic advice meant for everyone.
What's the investment for 1:1 coaching?
Investment details are discussed during the 30-minute strategy call, where we'll assess your goals and create a custom plan. The program is designed to pay for itself quickly through your increased salary. Most AI engineers see a 20-50% pay increase.
Is a bootcamp a good alternative to a CS degree?
It can be, but bootcamps have trade-offs. They provide structure and community, but cost $10K-$17K and may not offer personalized guidance. The key question: does the bootcamp teach you to build production systems, or just tutorial projects? Some bootcamp graduates still struggle because their portfolio doesn't demonstrate real-world capability.
Which companies hire AI engineers without degrees?
More than you'd think. Startups and mid-size tech companies often prioritize skills over credentials. Even some big tech companies have dropped degree requirements for engineering roles. The key is demonstrating capability through your portfolio, not convincing HR to overlook a missing checkbox.
Ready to Land Your AI Role?
Stop watching others succeed. Start building your AI career today.
30-minute strategy call • Limited spots available