Why I'm learning AI(Even though am a java developer

harik-thokala — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 09:52:23 +0000

I'm a software developer with 2.5 years of experience in java, Springboot, Mysql and Hibernate.

I build REST APIs and write sql queries for a SaaS platform that automates schools and Universities

But i want more

I want to build real-world applications, The kind that actually solve problems.And i beleive future is AI+backend.

So am taking 6 months to level up

My 6-month Plan

I'll be reading 3 books
1.Designing data intensive Applications(to understand how big systems work)
2.Designing Machine learning systems(to learn how to deploy ML)
3.AI Engineering (to learn how to build with AI)

Along side this I'll be:

Working on side projects 2.Writing about my journey(right here) 3.Sharing what I learn, even if it's messy.

What's Next?

I have an idea for an AI powered product.I'm not ready to share it yet, need to validate it first.

But I'll reveal it in my next Post.

Follow along if you want to see:

-> A java dev learning AI from scratch
->Real projects, not just tutorials
->Honest struggles and wins

let's build something Real.

DEV Community: harik-thokala

Why I'm learning AI(Even though am a java developer