Visiting IBM, Accenture & SAP: How EDHEC’s MiM – Data Science & AI for Business Prepares Students for the Future of AI

As part of the Master in Management – Data Science & AI for Business track, students embarked on an immersive learning expedition to Sophia Antipolis, often referred to as France’s very own ‘Silicon Valley.’ Located just a short distance from EDHEC’s Nice campus, Sophia Antipolis is a thriving hub for tech companies and a center for AI and data science innovation. This proximity provides EDHEC students with unique opportunities to engage with industry leaders, gain hands-on experience, and explore the applications of AI in real-world business environments. 

Here, Rishi Jayaraman Venkateshan, a current student of the programme, shares his key takeaways from this transformative experience. 

What was the purpose of this learning expedition? 

This visit was designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world industry applications. By engaging directly with professionals at IBM, Accenture, and SAP, we gained a deeper understanding of how data science and AI drive business innovation, strategy, and decision-making. 

What companies did you visit, and what did you learn? 

We visited three major industry leaders: 

• SAP Labs: We were introduced to Joule AI, an AI-powered assistant designed to streamline tasks such as booking trips, managing leave requests, and scheduling meetings. 
• IBM: The focus was on Watson X, an AI platform that enables local and secure usage, showcasing the role of AI in data security and scalable enterprise solutions. 
• Accenture: We explored augmented reality-based training systems, demonstrating how AI and immersive technology are revolutionizing corporate training and workforce development. 

What were some key insights from the visit? 

One of the most eye-opening takeaways was how these tech giants collaborate rather than compete, leveraging each other’s strengths to create innovative solutions. Each presentation highlighted their interdependencies and how they create value collectively. 

Another key discussion at Accenture focused on project selection and AI-driven solutions in business. We explored how AI-generated images enhance object detection models for natural disaster identification. Seeing niche technologies being applied in real-world challenges was fascinating. 

How does this experience connect to the EDHEC MiM – Data Science & AI for Business curriculum? 

The visit reinforced the practical relevance of our coursework. Topics like Mathematics of Deep Learning and Introduction to Machine Learning allowed us to grasp the technical aspects of these industry projects with ease. 

This experience solidified my understanding of the career path I need to follow and how this programme will help me get there. 

How does studying in Nice, near Sophia Antipolis, benefit students? 

The proximity to a thriving tech ecosystem offers unparalleled networking and learning opportunities. We can engage with top-tier tech firms, gain insights into industry trends, and explore potential career paths—all within a short distance from EDHEC’s Nice campus. 

Being close to Sophia Antipolis helps us gain perspective on the industry and prepares us for work life. 

What impact did the learning expedition have on your career aspirations? 

Beyond technical knowledge, the experience provided a valuable roadmap for career planning. Meeting professionals, understanding job market trends, and discussing recruitment strategies gave me a clearer picture of the opportunities ahead. 

The visit helped me understand how to apply for positions in this field and how to shape my profile to fit industry needs. 

How did this industry exposure shape your professional journey in AI and data science? 

This experience has had a positive influence on me. It has boosted my motivation to keep searching and applying for positions in this industry. 

Insights from Victor Planas-Bielsa, Programme Director of the MiM – Data Science & AI for Business track 

Victor Planas-Bielsa emphasised the importance of industry exposure and the strategic location of EDHEC’s Nice campus: 

“The trip to visit some of the leading tech companies was eye-opening for our Data Science and AI for Business students. They could discover firsthand how companies actually use data science and AI in their day-to-day operations. What really stood out was seeing how our programme's broad approach, covering both technical skills and business strategy, aligns perfectly with what these companies need. Beyond the learning experience, students got to connect with professionals and start building relationships that could lead to internships or jobs down the line.”