How should one start a career in machine learning?

There are several ways to start a career in ML since it all depends on where you are right now: Are you a CS undergrad student just about to graduate? Do you have a PhD in some science (e.g. Have you been working as a software engineer or analyst for years? Where you are right now will determine what is your best path forward. Learn some basics of ML (see My answer to Machine Learning: How do I learn machine learning?