Leland+ for Break Into AI Careers
Popular on Leland+
Introduction to the AI Company Landscape & Assignment
This will introduce the AI jobs landscape and also share reading to help you dive deeper to understand the entire AI market. There is an assignment to research three companies of interest to better understand what companies in this space do.
Forward-Deployed Engineers & AI Services-Led Growth
Explores the FDE role in detail: client-facing integration, technical implementation, rapid prototyping, and serving as a bridge between engineering and GTM, supported by insights from a16z and industry examples. Assignment encourages role research and personal reflection.
Inside the Forward-Deployed Engineer Role
Interactive session dissecting the FDE role with real-world examples, skill mapping, and discussion on how FDEs accelerate AI adoption in enterprise environments.
Understanding AI Compensation Data 2025
Provides updated, accurate AI salary ranges across roles such as AI researcher, MLE, and FDE, based on Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, and recent industry reports including the NYT's superstar compensation story. Includes assignment to benchmark target roles against market pay.
AI Job Market Noise, Networking Strategies & Referrals
Examines challenges posed by imprecise AI job listings and teaches targeted networking practices, referral system insights, and rapport-building with insiders, plus an assignment to initiate connections and refine messaging.
Creating Impactful Pre-Job Projects
Walkthrough of building and presenting portfolio pieces that resonate with AI employers, featuring tips on storytelling, technical demonstration, and networking through project sharing.
AI-Powered Lead Gen: More Leads, Less Work
Tired of spending hours prospecting, researching, and qualifying leads manually? In this session, Robin V., a Leland coach and AI automation expert, will show you how to harness AI to streamline your lead generation process and scale your outreach effortlessly. You’ll discover practical tools and tactics for finding high-quality leads, personalizing outreach at scale, and automating key parts of your sales funnel—without sacrificing authenticity or results. Whether you’re a founder, marketer, or sales professional, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies to generate more leads in less time using AI.
AI Week Kickoff: AI’s Impact on Jobs, Business, and Daily Life
Join us as we kick off AI Week with an incredible panel exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping the ways we live and work. This session, AI’s Impact on Jobs, Business, and Daily Life, brings together leading voices at the intersection of technology, work, and innovation — Andrew Q. (former Head of AI at Spotify, early OpenAI Engineer), Andrew S. (Editor at Large for Jobs & Career Development at LinkedIn News, Host of the Get Hired podcast), and Solomon C. (AI and Automation Expert). Together, they’ll unpack how AI is transforming industries, redefining roles, and creating new opportunities for both individuals and organizations. The kickoff is just the start. Throughout AI Week (Nov 10–13), we’ll dive deeper into the most important ways AI is shaping our world — from practical sessions on AI upskilling and using AI to grow your business, to insights on building a career in the age of AI. Whether you’re a professional, student, or business owner, you’ll leave equipped with the tools, strategies, and inspiration to thrive in the AI era.
How to Land a Job as an AI Product Manager
AI product management is one of the most exciting and fast-evolving roles in tech—but it can also be one of the hardest to break into. In this panel, Jeff N. (Principal PM @ Amazon), Nina O. (Former Lead PM @ Google), and Sonya K. (Former PM @ Microsoft) will share what it takes to land a PM role in the age of artificial intelligence, from building technical fluency to showcasing strategic thinking and cross-functional leadership. You’ll learn how top candidates position themselves for success, what hiring managers at companies like Meta, Google, and OpenAI are looking for, and how to stand out even without a traditional AI or engineering background. Whether you’re an aspiring PM or looking to transition into AI-focused products, this session will give you actionable insights and a clear roadmap to your next big opportunity.
Finally Use AI for Something Useful: Build AI Literacy That Moves Your Career Forward
AI is everywhere—but understanding how to use it effectively for your career can feel overwhelming. In this session, AI expert Matthew W. (Stanford, Meta) will guide you through practical ways to build AI literacy and leverage AI tools to enhance your work, decision-making, and professional growth. You’ll learn how to identify meaningful applications of AI in your role, avoid common pitfalls, and use AI strategically to save time, boost productivity, and strengthen your skillset. By the end, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies to move your career forward with confidence in an AI-driven world.
Navigating an AI Career: from Google to Microsoft to AI startups
Curious what it’s really like to build a career in AI—and how to stand out in one of tech’s fastest-growing fields? In this session, Michael A., who previously worked at McKinsey, Google, and Microsoft, and who now works with AI startups, will share insights from his own journey across big tech and emerging companies. You’ll learn how to identify the right roles in AI, what skills and experiences matter most to hiring teams, and how to position yourself for long-term success in this evolving space.
How to Become an AI Leader At Your Company
AI leadership isn’t just about technical expertise—it’s about influence, strategy, and execution. In this session, expert Leland coach and AI Program Director at Fabletics Logan K. will break down how to position yourself as a trusted AI leader within your organization, regardless of your formal role. You’ll learn how to identify high-impact opportunities, communicate AI value to stakeholders, and drive adoption responsibly and effectively.
