Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword, it’s a powerful tool in a developer's utility belt. But how do we move beyond simple chat windows and actually integrate AI into our application's core logic?

In this session, we will explore Applied AI through the lens of Google Cloud’s Vertex AI. We’ll dive into how to leverage models like Gemini to solve real-world problems. Using examples from DyFolio, a dynamic portfolio builder that uses AI for intelligent resume parsing, and a series of practical mini-apps, we will demonstrate how to add "brains" to your code.

What we will cover:

• The Transition: Moving from prompt engineering to full API integration.

• Vertex AI Ecosystem: Why use Vertex AI for production-ready applications.

• Real-World Implementation: A look at how to parse unstructured data (like PDFs) into clean, usable JSON.

• Micro-Demos: Quick, concrete examples of AI-driven features you can build today.

• Developer Experience: Working with the Vertex AI SDK and handling structured outputs.

• Whether you are a web developer, a cloud enthusiast, or just curious about the future of software, this talk will give you a clear roadmap to start building smarter applications.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the workflow of integrating Gemini via Vertex AI.

• Learn how to handle Structured Outputs for database-ready data.

• Get inspired by practical, "buildable" use cases for your next project.

Place: Ensign College Room 701