How to Hire Machine Learning Engineers and Stay On Top of AI Tech with Ron Green

The Lucent Perspective

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, we’re joined by Ron Green, co-founder and CTO of KUNGFU.AI. With over 20 years of experience in AI and a career dedicated to practical applications of machine learning, Ron shares his perspective on what it takes to build and lead high-performing AI teams. From hiring production-grade AI engineers to the importance of ongoing skill development, Ron provides a comprehensive guide for companies looking to harness AI effectively. Known for his work in creating custom AI solutions, Ron brings a unique approach to AI talent, emphasizing domain-specific applications and the critical role of culture in team dynamics.

Key Topics Covered:

• The essential skills for AI engineers in production environments
• The importance of cultural fit and humility within AI teams
• Why businesses should prioritize domain-specific AI over generative AI
• Effective strategies for assessing AI talent beyond technical skills
• Future AI trends and their implications for business and talent demand

Episode Highlights:

• [00:57] – Introduction to Ron Green, his background, and his work at KUNGFU.AI where he focuses on building custom AI solutions across industries.
• [02:58] – The critical components of production-grade AI, emphasizing the need for software skills in addition to AI expertise.
• [04:38] – Challenges in transitioning proof-of-concept projects to production, and why generative AI isn’t always the best fit for companies new to AI.
• [09:45] – Ron’s approach to hiring, highlighting the importance of humility, cultural fit, and adaptability in AI roles.
• [22:25] – Discussion of KUNGFU.AI's “Lab Day,” an initiative allowing engineers to dedicate time to staying current with AI advancements.
• [30:09] – Ron’s insights on domain-specific AI applications, particularly for companies beginning their AI journey.
• [38:10] – Future AI trends, including advancements in predictive capabilities, and how these trends will shape business strategy.

About Ron Green:

Ron Green is the co-founder and CTO of KUNGFU.AI, where he leads a team of engineers focused on developing tailored AI solutions for clients across a range of industries. With a strong emphasis on practical, production-ready AI, Ron’s approach prioritizes building reliable, scalable AI models that meet specific business objectives. In addition to his role at KUNGFU.AI, Ron hosts Hidden Layers, a podcast exploring current developments in AI and offering insights for both technical and business audiences.

Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group
Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/

Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call
The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/
The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/
Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.