Taking a career break for family, personal growth, or other responsibilities is a decision many women make. But returning to the workforce, especially in a rapidly changing world driven by AI and automation, can feel overwhelming. The good news? The demand for AI-related jobs is expected to soar, and you don’t need a tech degree to be a part of this revolution. You just need to learn some basic AI skills to thrive in your career once again.

According to the World Economic Forum, AI, machine learning, and data-related roles will be among the most in-demand jobs in the future. If you want to make a strong comeback, upskilling in AI and its related fields is a smart move. The best part? Many of these skills can be learned online for free or at a low cost.

Here’s a list of AI-related skills you can start learning today, even with no prior tech experience.

1. Basic AI and machine learning concepts

Understanding AI doesn’t mean you have to become a coder overnight. Start with the basics: what AI is, how machine learning works, and where it’s used in everyday life. Knowing these concepts will help you transition into AI-friendly roles such as AI project management, AI ethics, or business intelligence.

Where to learn:

Google’s AI for Everyone (Free)

Andrew Ng’s AI for Everyone on Coursera (Free audit option)

2. Python for beginners

Python is the go-to language for AI and machine learning. Even if you don’t want to be a full-fledged coder, learning basic Python can be useful in many AI-adjacent roles.

Where to learn:

Python for Everybody by Dr. Charles Severance (Coursera – Free audit)

Kaggle’s Python Micro-Courses (Free)

3. Data analysis and visualisation

AI runs on data, and companies need professionals who can make sense of it. Learning how to clean, analyse, and visualise data using tools like Excel, Google Sheets, or Power BI can help you land roles in business intelligence, data support, or market research.

Where to learn:

Google Data Analytics Certification (Coursera – Free trial available)

Microsoft Learn: Power BI for Beginners (Free)

4. Prompt engineering and generative AI

With AI tools like ChatGPT, MidJourney, and DALL·E becoming widely used, knowing how to write effective prompts can be a game-changer. Whether it’s for content creation, marketing, customer service, or automation, prompt engineering is a valuable skill.

Where to learn:

Learn Prompting (Free online course)

OpenAI’s Prompt Engineering Guide (Free)

5. AI ethics and responsible AI

Companies need professionals who can lead the ethical use of AI especially in industries like finance, healthcare, and HR. If you have a background in law, psychology, or even teaching, you can pivot into AI ethics or policy roles.

Where to learn:

Elements of AI by University of Helsinki (Free)

AI Ethics by Mark Coeckelbergh (edX – Free audit option)

6. Digital marketing with AI tools

If you have experience in marketing, content writing, or social media, AI tools like ChatGPT, Canva AI, and Google Bard can help you work smarter. Learning how to integrate AI in marketing campaigns will make you a sought-after professional.

Where to learn:

Google Digital Garage: Fundamentals of Digital Marketing (Free)

HubSpot’s AI-Powered Marketing (Free)

7. Cybersecurity awareness for AI and data protection

As AI grows, so does the need for cybersecurity experts. Even if you’re not a techie, understanding basic cybersecurity concepts can open doors in compliance, risk management, and AI governance.

Where to learn:

Introduction to Cybersecurity by Cisco Networking Academy (Free)

IBM Cybersecurity Analyst (Coursera – Free audit option)

Returning to work doesn’t mean starting from scratch. AI-related skills are diverse, and there’s a place for everyone whether you love numbers, writing, design, or business strategy. For Indian women looking to restart their careers, this is the perfect time to embrace AI.

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