Staying ahead of AI transformations means having an idea of what’s on the horizon. The landscape of AI is shifting from massive, general-purpose models to more precise and efficient solutions, as Alex Pujol, Vice President of Global Partner Engineering for Global Partner Sales, discusses in a blog about what’s coming next in AI. This transformation is changing how organizations innovate and operate—and it means that network engineers have the opportunity to learn the skills that’ll make them indispensable.
AI upskilling is critical for tech success
In today’s tech world, particularly in enterprise networking, having at least a foundational understanding of AI is crucial. With AI influencing everything from cybersecurity to business and sustainability decisions, continuous upskilling in this area isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a downright necessity.
As Pujol notes, “Success will belong to adaptable innovators who can bridge multiple domains—network engineers mastering machine learning, security experts grasping application development, and cloud architects embracing data science. The most valuable skill will shift from specialized knowledge to intellectual agility, as traditional IT roles evolve into strategic business partnerships focused on delivering outcomes.”
How can I get free AI training?
How can you be a winner in this new landscape as well? Start with free AI training inside Cisco U.
Here’s a free AI Learning Path you can start today:
- Understanding AI and LLMs as a Network Engineer
Learn the theory, background, and use cases for AI and large language models (LLMs) that a network engineer encounters daily.✓ Helpful for Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification prep.
✓ Receive a Credly digital completion badge after you successfully complete the post-assessment.
What are some free AI tutorials and courses?
- Run Your Own LLM Locally For Free and with Ease
Start running a powerful large language model locally on your own laptop using LM Studio! No need for a cloud account or GPU. - Automate AI Deployments with GitHub Actions and OpenShift
Learn how to build a complete MLOps pipeline with automated updates. - Introduction to Modern AI (NetAcad)
This Cisco Networking Academy free course shows you how to use AI in daily life. - Introduction to AI Vulnerabilities
Learn about different vulnerabilities that exist in today’s LLMs and how to mitigate these risks. - Template Configurations with Cisco Nexus Dashboard Fabric Controller
In this intermediate tutorial, discover how to use the templating engine in the Fabric Controller, including how to duplicate a built-in or create a new template using conditionals and variable types.
What paid AI training is available in Cisco U.?
These Learning Paths are included in a Cisco U. Essentials or All Access subscription.
- AI Solutions on Cisco Infrastructure Essentials
Get the essentials of deploying, migrating, and operating AI solutions on Cisco data center infrastructure. - Prompt Engineering with Generative AI Tools
Prompt engineering is more than just asking simple questions. This Learning Path teaches you advanced skills in diverse prompting techniques through the OpenAI Playground. - Foundations of Generative AI
In this relatively short (2 hours and 40 minutes) Learning Path, you’ll discover how to leverage generative AI to reshape your organization. Learn how generative AI can be used in business today, including how to automate sales and reporting and improve customer experience. - Leveraging Generative AI APIs
Integrate generative AI APIs and explore their potential for practical applications. Utilize pre-trained models for practical and creative purposes and explore the capabilities of Google Generative AI APIs. - AI Simulators – Building Business and Troubleshooting Skills
AI Simulators help you navigate a variety of situations to learn leadership, technical, and management skills. You’ll tackle real-world challenges, including cybersecurity breach investigations, public relations scandals, and upward delegation.
Thanks for reading! I hope you found this blog helpful for your AI learning journey. So, which title are you planning to dive into first? Let me know in the comments section below.
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Educating Tomorrow’s Tech Workforce: A New Map for AI-Era Skills
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