I'm a 24-year-old with the 'hottest job in AI.' These are the skills you need to get a role like mine.

At just 24 years old, Kanav Bhatnagar is making waves in the AI sector as a forward-deployed engineer (FDE) at Rippling, an HR technology firm based in New York City. His journey into tech began with a passion for creating innovative solutions, leading him to a role at Amazon right after college. There, he absorbed invaluable engineering principles but eventually sought a more intimate setting where he could have a direct impact on product development. After spending two and a half years at Amazon, Kanav transitioned to Actively AI, a sales startup, where he discovered his calling in forward-deployed engineering. This role, recognized as one of the most coveted positions in AI, marries software engineering with business insight, allowing him to engage directly with customers to tailor solutions to their specific needs. In his current role at Rippling, Kanav focuses on building customized solutions for clients by directly engaging with them to understand their challenges. For instance, he assists a restaurant chain in streamlining their payroll process, transitioning from manual entry and spreadsheets to an efficient system integrated within Rippling’s platform. This customer-centric approach was a significant shift from his previous experience, where software engineers often remain distanced from end-users. His daily routine is a blend of coding and customer interactions, requiring him to master context-switching skills as he moves from technical problem-solving to client discussions. Kanav emphasizes that the ability to communicate effectively with non-technical customers is crucial and often involves asking probing questions to grasp their issues fully. His technical background is invaluable, especially during interviews, which include rigorous coding assessments and situation-based queries to demonstrate problem-solving capabilities. Outside of work, he dedicates time to stay abreast of the latest developments in AI, seeking insights from colleagues and online resources to enhance his workflow. With aspirations to launch his own startup in the future, Kanav describes the FDE role as a form of ‘founder bootcamp,’ equipping him with essential skills needed for entrepreneurship. As the landscape of AI continues to evolve, Kanav believes that the demand for forward-deployed engineers will persist, even if some AI ventures struggle for profitability. The role is becoming increasingly significant as companies seek to manage complex client contracts, and the need for customer-focused software solutions grows. With companies like Palantir employing FDEs since before AI became mainstream, it’s clear that this career path is not only relevant but essential for the future of technology.