Wuhan course to nurture artificial intelligence trainers

Nearly 100 students, mostly from artificial intelligence companies in Wuhan, Hubei province, enrolled in a course for AI trainers at the New Energy Research Institute in Wuhan Future Technology City on Saturday.

The Wuhan Software Industry Association organized the course, which is led by senior professors from Huazhong University of Science and Technology's School of Software Engineering.

AI trainers manage databases, set algorithm parameters, design human-machine interactions and track performance testing using training software, all crucial for the practical use of AI products.

With AI's expanding applications, the demand for qualified trainers is high.

"A million-person talent gap exists in China's AI field," said Zhang Kai, the association's deputy secretary-general. "Similar courses are offered in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai.

"We learned from Shanghai's AI industry association. Our course covers AI algorithms, technology, applications, Python tools, practical exercises and intelligent system design."

Outstanding graduates can take a certification exam after 40 lessons.

Wang Shixian, the software engineering school's Party secretary, pledged to leverage the school's AI expertise to support the course and contribute to Hubei province's AI talent development and industrial growth.

One student, Wang Ruzhuo, an engineer at Jimu Intelligent Technology, a Wuhan-based AI firm specializing in intelligent driving, hopes to enhance his software engineering skills. "Over 30 employees from our company are enrolled," Wang said.

"The company arranged our registration. The AI industry boom has attracted widespread interest. Some classmates with no prior experience are starting their studies with great enthusiasm."

Zhang said the association plans to continue the course, leveraging Huazhong University's strengths.

"We aim to create a model integrating an industrial cluster, a technology research institute and a training base for AI basic data services," he said. "We hope to empower AI trainers to provide customized services for clients through a refined service process and quality assurance, meeting the specific needs of various companies."