UIC MEng alum, Luis Cuello, dives into AI engineering armed with expertise from his online degree

Meet Luis Cuello, a 2024 graduate of the University of Illinois Chicago’s online Master of Engineering (MEng) with a focus area in AI and Machine Learning program. Luis’ journey from earning his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering in 2016 to his current role in AI training at Invisible Technologies is a testament to the transformative power of continuous learning and adaptability. 

Luis’ decision to pursue the online MEng program at UIC was driven by a combination of factors. These factors included the flexibility of the online format and the program’s emphasis on cutting-edge areas within engineering, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). As an engineer, Luis has already applied his MEng knowledge to navigate work challenges and contribute meaningfully to projects.  

For prospective students, Luis wholeheartedly recommends the online MEng program at UIC. He highlights the program’s flexibility, quality education, and the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and academics. Luis sees the program as not just an educational journey but a strategic investment for future leadership roles in the AI sector. 

Learn how Luis hopes to establish his career in AI and how he plans to leverage his online MEng degree to navigate the complexities of the tech industry, aiming to make a meaningful impact. 

Tell us a little about yourself. 

In 2016, I completed my bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and have furthered my knowledge in the field by pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). My decision to enroll in the online MEng program at UIC was influenced by the flexibility of the online format, which allowed me to balance my studies with my work and personal life, and UIC’s reputation for excellence in engineering and technology education. The program’s focus on AI and ML aligned perfectly with my career objectives and interests.  

On January 8, I embarked on a new chapter in my professional journey by joining Invisible Technologies, a company specializing in AI training. This marks a significant milestone in my career development. 

How have you applied your Master of Engineering (MEng) knowledge to your AI career? Has your degree helped you overcome any work challenges? 

Given that I recently started a new role as an engineer, the opportunity to apply the knowledge from the MEng program is just beginning to unfold. While I am still in the early stages of my career, the foundational principles of AI and ML I’ve learned so far have already been valuable. In my current position, my MEng studies have given me a strong theoretical foundation and an understanding of the core concepts of AI, which are crucial for grasping the complexities of our work. This knowledge allows me to engage more meaningfully with projects and contribute ideas that are grounded in current AI methodologies.  

One immediate area where my MEng knowledge has been beneficial is in problem solving during project discussions. Even as a newcomer, being able to understand and suggest potential solutions based on what I’ve learned has helped me overcome the initial learning curve faster than expected. This has not only increased my confidence but has also demonstrated the practical value of my ongoing education to my team and supervisor. As I progress in my career, I anticipate being able to tackle more complex challenges and contribute even more to work projects. 

What AI and ML skills have you gained or sharpened through your program? 

Through the online MEng program, I have developed and refined a broad spectrum of skills that are crucial for my career journey in AI and ML. I’ve developed an in-depth understanding of AI and ML algorithms, which enables me to tackle complex problems with innovative solutions. My ability to analyze and interpret big data sets has been significantly enhanced, equipping me with the tools necessary for developing accurate and efficient AI models. I’ve also improved my proficiency in essential programming languages such as Python, R, and MATLAB, allowing for the development of more effective code. Additionally, the program has sharpened my critical thinking and problem-solving skills. 

Were there any real-world applications or projects in your MEng courses that you found useful or valuable?  

MEng courses like MENG 404: Math Fundamentals for AI Engineers and Data Scientists and CS 421: Natural Language Processing have been particularly valuable for me. The MENG 404 course enhanced my mathematical skills and  provided me with practical experience that directly applies to analyzing and interpreting data. The CS 421 course has offered me insights into how computers can understand and generate human language and has taught me techniques for text processing and data analysis that are directly relevant to developing AI applications for natural language processing (NLP). These courses have significantly contributed to my practical skills in AI and ML. 

What advice do you have for prospective students? Why would you recommend the online MEng program at UIC? 

I highly recommend the online MEng program at UIC for its quality of education and its curriculum designed to cover the latest developments in AI and ML. The MEng faculty is comprised of experienced professionals and academics who provide insightful guidance and support which enhanced my learning experience.  

How do you plan to use your MEng degree? What are your future career endeavors in AI and ML? 

I plan to leverage my MEng degree to advance my career in AI and ML. My immediate goal is to deepen my involvement in AI training projects at my current company. Over the long term, I aspire to take on leadership roles within the industry, driving the development and implementation of AI technologies that can solve complex problems and improve efficiency across various sectors. Additionally, I am interested in exploring opportunities for entrepreneurship within the tech industry, potentially starting a venture that focuses on leveraging AI for social good or to address pressing global challenges. The combination of technical expertise and managerial skills gained through the MEng program will be instrumental in achieving my goals, providing me with a strong foundation to navigate the complexities of the tech industry and make a meaningful impact. 

Is there anything else you would like to share? 

My journey in the online MEng program has been immensely rewarding. I am eager to apply my learnings in practical settings, explore new challenges, and contribute to the growth and success of my organization and the wider tech community.