Where do you currently work or where did you previously work?
I am currently on Universal Credit, and used to work in the healthcare industry
Why Tech Ed and how did you find us?
My work coach recommended Tech Ed to me. A very fortunate thing, I must add.
Do you feel Tech Ed has changed/improved your life, if yes, how?
Yes, Let's say I was in a dark place prior to Tech Educators.
Recommendation aside, why did you decide to start coding or consider a career in tech?
It's because tech brings out the best in me. It allows me to problem-solve on the job. There is also a saying, an idle mind is the Devil's playground? It's a true statement, and the best way I found out about such places is by learning something new [smiles].
Did you have any prior coding experience before starting the Tech Ed course?
Yes, I spent about 8 months learning how to code using online resources. This helped me progress through the course much more smoothly compared to if I had no coding experience.
What did you like the most about the course and what types of things did you learn?
Rubbing shoulders with experienced programmers. It is a well-known fact that if one hangs around smart individuals, they are bound to become smart too! [smiles] Soft skills and technical skills I learnt how to write items into local storage.
Could you tell us briefly what have you learned so far?
We learnt how to build a website from the ground up. We learnt the rules behind building a professional website as an example, having a wireframe is a core principle before a website is made.
How are you finding the course so far and how do you feel about being involved?
This is the best happy accident I have ever had! The team is not only friendly and relaxed, but also has an essence of professionalism when it is time to do some work. All-in-all the course went well. Although there were times when I second-guessed myself… Nah! Just kidding! [laughs] I enjoyed each moment :)
Could you give us an example of something you’ve found challenging and something you’ve found fun while on the course?
The most challenging thing that I have faced so far, is understanding DOM manipulation in a project setting e.g. building a shopping cart with 3 js files instead of one. I found it fun at the same time because it led me down a hole where I ended up learning other ways of completing the task I had been given.
Do you have a preferred niche you would like to work in, after the courses or within the next few years?
At the moment, no. I have thought of diving into Cyber Security, however, since I am relatively new to this industry, I came to the conclusion that baby steps are best for now. Once I have enough knowledge of the pros and cons of each niche, then I will make a concrete decision about what niche I like best.
Are you worried about being able to find a job after the course?
No. There is a 1.6 million deficit of software engineers in the UK alone. With this course in the bag, I can begin working on my own projects with the confidence that I have the skill set to do so. A job in tech will be the icing on the cake.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking of applying and would you recommend this course to someone looking for a career change?
Don't do it, it's a trap! [laughs]
But jokes aside. If you think you are capable, believe it. Coding is hard but just like any skill, it can be learnt. And yes, absolutely, the course is short, concise and straight to the point. With the right amount of work, it's easy to use this course as a bridge. I am also going to be doing the blockchain add on after completing this first part, which I think is an opportunity, if offered, everyone should take.
About the Author
James has 8 years with Fortune 200 US firm ITW, experience of managing projects in China, USA, and throughout Europe. James has worked with companies such as Tesco, Vauxhall, ITW, Serco, McDonalds. James has experience in supporting start-up and scale up companies such as Readingmate, Gorilla Juice and Harvest London. James completed his MBA at the University of East Anglia in 2018.
