Transitioning from academic study to professional work can be challenging for students. However, at Dalhousie University, the DeepSense organization is bridging this gap by connecting students with industry partners to develop applied AI solutions.
DeepSense: A Model for Career Opportunities in Applied AI
Founded by the Faculty of Computer Science, DeepSense originally targeted the ocean sector. It has since expanded its focus to include areas such as defense and natural resources. The organization uses paid internships to facilitate the connection between students and real-world employment opportunities.
Structure of the Internship Program
Alex Pottier, the senior program manager, oversees all projects at DeepSense. He guides students throughout their internships, offering mentorship and ensuring a structured environment. Each project includes clearly defined objectives and milestones.
- Interns are paired with industry partners.
- Each intern receives mentorship from a technical advisor.
- Weekly progress meetings involve both DeepSense staff and company teams.
This immersive experience helps students understand the application of their studies in real-life scenarios. Pottier emphasizes the support provided during internships. “Students come into a project with a clear objective, and they are guided throughout,” he states.
Expanding Project Scope
As DeepSense broadens its focus, it explores potential work in agriculture, health, and food production. The internship program serves as a vital link between Dalhousie’s academic offerings and the growing demands of the AI workforce. In recognition of its contributions, DeepSense received Nova Scotia’s Tech for Good Award last fall. This award appreciates efforts in using technology for positive social, environmental, and economic changes.
Real-World Applications of Applied AI
For students like Shail Rajeshbhai Kardani, a Master of Applied Computer Science graduate, a DeepSense internship offered invaluable hands-on experience. He contributed to a phytoplankton monitoring project in the St. Anns Bank Marine Protected Area off Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.
Kardani noted the significant difference between academic projects and industry-based work. “You take ownership and propose ideas that lead to real-world results,” he explained. Collaborating with professionals, including marine biologists and project managers, deepened his understanding of AI’s role in decision-making processes.
Student Experiences and Growth
Another intern, Kishan Patel, who is studying Computer Science, shared a complementary experience. He worked on shoreline cleanup projects in British Columbia, utilizing drone footage and machine-learning models to identify and map plastic waste.
“At DeepSense, I saw the entire pipeline from data collection to deployment,” he stated. This comprehensive approach clarified how applied AI functions beyond the classroom setting. “We encourage students to differentiate themselves by working on personal projects,” Pottier advised.
Conclusion
DeepSense exemplifies how academic experience can translate into career opportunities in applied AI. By connecting students with practical projects, the organization is fostering the next generation of innovators prepared to meet the demands of an evolving workforce.
