In a remarkable pivot from the realm of software engineering, an Indian tech enthusiast has embarked on a novel career trajectory. Phani Sai Ram Munipalli, 28, who spent four years as a full-time software engineer, recounted his journey during a candid interview.
Previously employed by notable firms such as IBM in Bengaluru and Walmart Global Tech in Chennai, he has transitioned into the dynamic field of AI product management. An Indian techie who left her career in software engineering to take up something new. (LinkedIn/Phani Sai Ram M)
“In July 2022, I decided to depart from software engineering and pursue a role in AI/tech product management at Walmart in the U.S., despite my limited experience in this domain,” Munipalli revealed to Business Insider.
Rationale Behind the Transition
The tech expert elaborated that his decision was not motivated by the allure of increased financial gain. Rather, it stemmed from a profound conviction that artificial intelligence possesses the potential to transform lives.
“With the advent of ChatGPT, it became evident to me that a significant paradigm shift was on the horizon. My technical background provided a unique vantage point in the burgeoning AI talent landscape,” he reflected.
Navigating the Career Shift
As detailed on his LinkedIn profile, Munipalli earned his bachelor’s degree in computer science from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh. Following a brief internship, he joined IBM Bengaluru in 2018, where he dedicated two years to honing his skills. Subsequently, he transitioned to Walmart Global Tech as a software engineer, continuing in that role until 2022.
In pursuit of further knowledge, he completed a master’s program in computer software engineering at San Jose State University in August 2022. Shortly thereafter, he commenced work as a part-time AI research assistant at the university. His subsequent career moves included two internships, culminating in 2024 when he secured a position at Walmart in California, where he currently thrives.
In his conversation with the outlet, Munipalli articulated his motivations for transitioning to AI: “I have a passion for coding, which I still indulge in through personal projects, but I yearned to transcend mere coding. I aimed to comprehend the products that could be developed leveraging AI, identify the users, and understand how these innovations assist them.”
He asserted that this realization prompted a rigorous self-assessment and the formulation of a strategic roadmap to cultivate his own AI-centric playbook, built around three fundamental strategies.
His strategies encompass “rewiring” his cognitive approach to AI product thinking, “abandoning conventional frameworks in interviews,” and “prioritizing relationship building over networking.”
Source link: Hindustantimes.com.
