In the latest episode of the Oracle Academy Tech Chat podcast, host Alba Joven, Oracle Academy Country Manager for Spain, speaks with Javier de la Torre Medina, an Oracle Autonomous Database Specialist at Oracle, about how to become an artificial intelligence (AI) data engineer. During the conversation, Javier explains first what it means to be a data engineer, and how Oracle helps individuals enter this field, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence.
For those less familiar with the term, Oracle Autonomous Database is (as described in this article) a cloud database that uses machine learning to automate database tuning, security, backups, updates, and other routine management tasks traditionally performed by database administrators (DBAs) and performs them autonomously, without human intervention.
Javier then highlights that AI will not replace jobs, but will create new opportunities —and those who know how to use it will have a competitive edge in the job market. He also discusses how Oracle supports AI data engineers through tools like Data Studio, which allows users to load, transform, and serve data without prior experience with Oracle technologies.
For those looking to start in this field, Javier recommends having a basic knowledge of SQL, working with Oracle LiveLabs, and learning about tools such as Select AI and Large Language Models (LLMs). He also suggests gaining familiarity with vector data inside the Oracle Database and exploring Oracle APEX , Oracle’s low-code development platform, to present data clearly to executives.
To conclude, Javier reminds students and educators that while AI is everywhere and new data products are constantly emerging, the core principles of data engineering remain unchanged. Even with greater flexibility, better computing power, and AI assistance, mastering the technology basics is still essential.
You can listen to this episode and other episodes of Oracle Academy Tech Chat on standard podcasting platforms.