4 people who pivoted into AI jobs — and how they did it

The surge in artificial intelligence has transformed the job market, prompting many professionals to shift their careers into this dynamic field. As companies invest heavily in AI, they are not only eliminating certain positions but also creating exciting new roles. This shift presents a unique opportunity for workers looking to future-proof their careers amidst an evolving employment landscape. AI engineers, consultants, strategists, and researchers are among the fastest-growing job roles in the United States, as highlighted in LinkedIn's Jobs On the Rise 2026 report. However, there is no one-size-fits-all path to entering the AI sector. Here, we explore the journeys of four individuals who successfully made the leap from diverse backgrounds into AI-focused roles. Natasha Crampton's career began in law, and she now serves as Microsoft's first chief responsible AI officer. In her role, she collaborates closely with engineering, sales, and research teams to ensure that ethical principles are integrated into AI systems. Crampton, who studied both information systems and law, has always been intrigued by the intersection of technology and society. Her advice for those transitioning from other fields is to actively engage with technology, emphasizing that many technical skills can be acquired over time. She believes that the most significant value often arises from combining technical expertise with insights drawn from social sciences. Georgian Tutuianu has undergone several transitions in his engineering career, moving from structural engineering to software and now to AI at HubSpot. He credits his hands-on technical experience as a crucial asset during the interview process. His resume included personal projects, including an AI initiative that became a focal point during his interviews. Tutuianu noted that the interview approach at HubSpot was refreshing, focusing on practical skills rather than traditional algorithm challenges. Meanwhile, Jai Raj Choudhary made the jump from a data-centric position to an AI engineer at StackAI, a startup specializing in AI agents. At just 24 years old, Choudhary leveraged his familiarity with StackAI's platform and actively engaged with the company's co-founder on LinkedIn. His understanding of data quality and failure modes of AI models helped him secure his position. Moving to San Francisco, where a demanding work culture thrives, also opened doors for him. He embraces the intense work schedule, stating that his commitment to continuous learning has been vital to his growth. Lastly, Brit Morenus, now a senior AI gamification program manager at Microsoft, began her career as an executive assistant after studying English and communications. Over the years, she transitioned into roles focused on gamification, where she enhanced her knowledge of game mechanics. Her journey into AI began with a passion for learning, and she encourages others to push beyond their comfort zones. Morenus stresses the importance of understanding the language and concepts behind AI, reinforcing that her English degree is a valuable asset in this field. These stories exemplify how professionals from various backgrounds can successfully pivot into AI roles, highlighting the diverse pathways available in this rapidly expanding industry.