Our interviewee today is a representative of the new generation of AI engineers. His early experiments with code have evolved into tools for businesses and users that are already in use today. In this interview, he talks about his childhood, his studies, his early triumphs, the challenges of his work, creating his own projects, and shares his perspective on the future of technology. Details below.
– Bekzhan, tell us about yourself as a young person. What were you like as a child, and what were your interests?
As a child, I was very inquisitive. My parents say I even enjoyed taking apart electronics and examining their internal workings, trying to figure out what was what. Then I got my first computer. It was simple, but it sparked my passion for learning various software for developers. Later, I began writing code. I wasn’t even thinking about a career in engineering back then, but I always wondered if I’d be able to create something of my own one day…
– When did you first realize that you wanted to connect your life with technology and programming?
It happened in my teens. I started experimenting more with programming, creating small projects where I tried to automate certain tasks. When I realized I could create tools that actually saved time, I realized it was a good opportunity to start making money.
– How was your student life and what did it teach you?
University taught me many lessons. I studied computer science, software engineering, and machine learning. The most valuable learning was the hands-on experience, projects, and hackathons. There, I learned teamwork, quick decision-making, and, in general, working under deadlines.
– Bekzhan, were there any difficulties during your studies? If so, what were they?
Of course. Sometimes it felt like there was too much information, and not enough time or even energy to understand it all. I had to study, work on projects, and look for internships all at once. But that period really disciplined me.
– As far as I know, you’ve participated in hackathons and competitions. What was the most memorable experience?
One of the most memorable moments involved developing a voice system at a hackathon. We created a production-ready AI voice trainer. The first AI-powered singing system impressed fourteen judges and took first place at the 2025 Berkeley Hackathon.
I was also honored to be a judge at the Angel Connect hackathon and to win the Decentrathon 2.0.
– I’m interested to know how your professional career began?
I started by developing automation and data tools. At Halyk Bank, I developed and implemented Python bots to automate core banking processes, reducing the team’s manual workload by over two hours a day. It was a great start. It’s that indescribable feeling when the code you write improves the work of an entire organization!
– What problems did you work on as an artificial intelligence engineer?
I worked on integrating language models, creating intelligent assistants, and developing tools using the RAG architecture and AI APIs. I worked on personalization systems, voice assistants, and user task automation.
– Tell us about the projects you are especially proud of?
One of the projects involved creating a voice assistant that could execute commands and automate everyday computer tasks. I also enjoyed working on an educational tool for teaching sign language using artificial intelligence. There was also a project for a browser-based agent that helped students navigate educational materials.
– What is the most challenging thing for you in developing AI-based products?
The most difficult thing is finding a balance. After all, you need to consider data quality, system performance, and user experience. Sometimes a model works well during development, but then requires significant refinement before being deployed in a real production environment.
– How do you approach developing new ideas and where do you find inspiration?
I usually start by analyzing current user problems. First, I think about what problem can be solved, then I create a quick prototype. After that, I test my hypotheses, and gradually the idea evolves into a ready-to-use tool.
– I’d like to hear your opinion as an expert. How do you see the future of artificial intelligence?
I believe AI will become even more integrated into everyday life. More personalized assistants will emerge, and automation will become more commonplace.
– What advice would you give to students just starting out in technology?
Don’t be afraid to try your hand at something; take on projects. Theory is important, of course, but only practice can develop real skills. Be sure to participate in hackathons, constantly learn new things, expand your network, and never sit still.
Bekzhan’s personal example demonstrates that an engineer’s path consists of constant learning, experimentation, and the courage to realize one’s own ideas. His professional mission is to create technologies that make people’s lives more efficient!
Roza Zakirova
