The transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significantly altered our daily lives and is impacting many industries. Seeing the potential and challenges related to integrating AI into its R&D and business activities, Daikin established the Daikin Information and Communications Technology College (DICT) back in 2017 with the aim to cultivate world-class expertise in AI and data analysis.
Today, Daikin leverages AI practises to lead the way in digital transformation for its industries. A shining example of this commitment is the recent achievement of Tsuyoshi Isaka, a data scientist at Daikin Japan, who earned a gold medal in the prestigious “LLM 20 Questions” competition hosted by Kaggle, the world’s largest AI competition platform. This remarkable accomplishment highlights both Daikin’s dedication to nurturing world-class talent and its drive to pioneer innovative advancements in AI.
Celebrating Tsuyoshi Isaka’s Achievement
The “LLM 20 Questions” competition challenged participants to demonstrate exceptional deductive reasoning and efficient information-gathering skills in developing language models. Competing against 832 teams, Isaka earned the prestigious “Kaggle Master” certification, placing him among the top 1% of data scientists globally. This certification underscores the depth of technical knowledge and analytical capabilities that Daikin’s employees bring to the table.
Daikin recognises this achievement as a milestone that highlights its investment in nurturing world-class talent. Notably, Isaka is a graduate of Daikin Information and Communications Technology College (DICT), an in-house institution established in Japan to foster expertise in AI and data analysis. Reflecting on his success, Isaka stated:
"I am currently focused on developing methods to estimate temperature and airflow distribution using ultrasound. By applying the insights I gained through my participation in Kaggle, I aim to analyse air data and contribute to optimised air environments.”
The Role of DICT in shaping Daikin’s future
The foundation of Daikin’s success in AI and DX lies in its foresight and dedication to developing a skilled workforce. In December 2017, Daikin established the Daikin Information and Communications Technology College (DICT) in collaboration with Osaka University, within the Technology Innovation Center (TIC) in Japan, the base for developing core technologies. This pioneering initiative addresses the urgent need to cultivate expertise in AI and data-driven technologies across the organisation.
DICT offers tailored programs for employees at all levels, including a two-year IoT and AI training for new graduates, advanced AI development and implementation courses for experienced employees, and executive training focused on leveraging DX for business model innovation.
DICT’s structured and multi-faceted approach ensures employees are not only equipped to meet the demands of AI-driven industries but are also empowered to push innovation beyond conventional boundaries.
Advancing digital transformation globally
DICT graduates from Japan – 440 to date – alongside other global AI experts within Daikin, are at the forefront of the Daikin Group’s digital transformation initiatives. Their contributions extend across various domains, including:
AI-powered fault diagnosis and energy optimisation
Factory digitalisation
Creating healthy and comfortable environments
These advancements are instrumental in Daikin’s mission to provide sustainable, energy-efficient solutions while contributing to global carbon neutrality. Through continuous investment in AI and DX, Daikin aims to transform how businesses operate. As Daikin continues to explore new frontiers in AI and DX, its employees remain the cornerstone of its success. By breaking traditional boundaries and pursuing data-driven solutions, Daikin is not only redefining the HVAC&R industry but also contributing to a sustainable and comfortable future for all.
