Allison Harbin humorously notes that her entry into artificial intelligence (AI) was somewhat accidental. With a Ph. D. in art history from Rutgers University in 2017, she aimed for a career in academia, spending years in higher education. In October 2023, however, she was recruited to help design Google’s generative AI chatbot, Gemini, marking the start of her foray into AI, which she has found to be an exciting and rewarding field. Her role as an AI prompt engineer requires no formal technical training, enabling individuals from diverse backgrounds, including marketing and law, to enter this in-demand profession. Prompt engineers are vital in optimizing AI responses, crafting precise inputs to enhance interaction between users and technology. As AI's role in various sectors grows, the demand for prompt engineers has surged, with salaries reaching as high as $300, 000. While some economists warn that this demand may fade, others expect prompt engineering to evolve into a necessary skill for many jobs. Those like Harbin, who are involved in developing AI, are optimistic about its longevity.

Now 38 and working remotely as an AI analyst and prompt engineer at a healthcare tech firm, Harbin earns over $100, 000 a year. She leverages natural language to refine AI responses and guides users in utilizing generative AI tools effectively. In discussing her transition to AI, Harbin revealed she had been working freelance when ChatGPT launched in 2022. Following the loss of a client, she was contacted about a role with Gemini, discovering that strong writing and communication skills were critical to prompt engineering, which quickly captivated her. To improve her technical skills, Harbin turned to LinkedIn Learning for certifications but emphasized the value of free online resources and self-directed learning. Now, in her role, she trains employees on using the GenAI chatbot for efficiency. Her favorite aspect is engaging with users to understand their needs and crafting prompts, while the fast-paced nature of the field can be overwhelming. She countered common misconceptions about AI taking jobs, asserting that while roles may evolve, humans will still play essential roles in proofreading, fact-checking, and training AI, given its inherent limitations and potential inaccuracies. Looking ahead, Harbin hopes for AI to create new job opportunities rather than just automate existing ones. However, she worries about the rapid adoption of AI technologies without a clear understanding of their capabilities and shortcomings. She emphasizes the need for vigilance in addressing potential AI-related problems before they escalate. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.