UCA Hosts 2025 Machine Learning & AI Bootcamp Led by Silicon Valley Experts

The University of Central Asia (UCA) proudly hosted the 2025 Machine Learning & AI Bootcamp—an intensive, week-long programme designed to equip Computer Science students with practical skills in applied machine learning and artificial intelligence. Conducted by leading experts from Silicon Valley in collaboration with InkubasiaLab, the bootcamp provided immersive, hands-on training, expert mentorship, and real-world project experience in a highly collaborative environment.

This initiative reflects the Computer Science programme’s dedication to bridging academic knowledge with cutting-edge industry practices, empowering students to strengthen their technical expertise and prepare for impactful careers in AI and data science. Building on a successful history with InkubasiaLab—including hosting the bootcamp in 2023 and facilitating student participation in 2024—UCA once again brought the Applied Machine Learning & AI Bootcamp to its Naryn campus in 2025.

The programme focused on translating theoretical concepts into practical applications, substantially enhancing both academic and professional development. Students worked directly with mentors to explore diverse aspects of AI—from infrastructure and cybersecurity to software engineering and applied data science—while gaining exposure to industry-standard tools and workflows.

Instructors and Mentors from Silicon Valley

• Tim Lee – Data Scientist at Workday, applying machine learning in enterprise finance and HR cloud products; previously in cybersecurity, marketing, and industrial energy.
• Isaac Wang – Former start-up entrepreneur who built an automated tax platform company; passionate about software development and problem-solving.
• Kevin Lin – Senior Infrastructure Engineering Manager at Facebook, scaling systems for the world’s largest social networks.
• Crystal Hsieh – Formerly at Google, now maintaining LinkedIn Groups’ backend infrastructure; founder of a tech coding camp and advocate for tech education for women and youth.
• Victor Chen – Security Engineer at Nuro, working on security protocols, authentication flows, and infrastructure security; previously Software Engineer at Quora.
• David Wise – Former Facebook (Meta) software engineer, specialising in full-stack/backend development and anti-spam systems at Instagram.

Voices from the Bootcamp

Associate Professor Ayman Aljarbouh, Academic Director of the Computer Science programme, highlighted the transformative impact of the event:

“The 2025 Machine Learning & AI Bootcamp was a transformative experience for our students, offering them direct exposure to industry-standard tools and practices. Collaborating with InkubasiaLab and bringing in experts from Silicon Valley allowed us to create a unique learning environment where theory met real-world application. Initiatives like this are vital in preparing our students to become the next generation of innovators in AI and machine learning.”

Mentors also reflected on the value of the bootcamp:

Crystal Hsieh shared how the camp bridges education with industry:

“We expose students to tools they may have never used before and provide labs where they can put them into action. Mentorship is at the heart of the programme, with engineers from hardware, AI infrastructure, and software backgrounds guiding them. This not only helps students see how AI is used in everyday life but also trains them in problem-solving—applying tools to datasets and new challenges, just like in real-world careers.”

Tim Lee reflected on the experience of returning to UCA:

“This is the second time hosting the bootcamp. The first time, we weren’t sure what to expect—but it turned out to be incredible. We loved working with the staff and meeting such talented students. Some had little prior knowledge, but they ramped up so quickly, which was inspiring. The energy was just wonderful. And honestly, looking out the window here, it’s clear why anyone would want to come.”

The 2025 Machine Learning & AI Bootcamp provided UCA students with direct exposure to industry-standard tools, practical applications, and expert mentorship. By integrating Silicon Valley expertise with academic learning, the programme strengthened students’ technical competencies and enhanced their readiness for careers in data science and artificial intelligence. Such initiatives reflect UCA’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality education that aligns with global industry standards.