Steven Willis
Job Before: Estate Agent
Job Now: Junior Developer @ Black Nova Designs
Why did you start the Traineeship?
I started IT Career Switch because I felt my current role was coming to an end and the path I was following wasn’t what I really wanted. I had always coded since a kid but was worried that not going to university would remove my chances to get into a development role. I figured I may as well have a stab it and IT Career Switch gave me the confidence and support to do it!
What did you enjoy most about the Traineeship?
Most enjoyment for me came through the individual training modules where you got to learn real life concepts and procedures for carrying out tasks. My tutor Paddy Evans was exceptional all the way through offering advice but also getting me to think about why we do things in a certain way. I have always had a thirst for knowledge and was fairly confident but along the way realised there were some important concepts that I would not have known about had I not done the course.
What's your current role like?
My current role is a breath of fresh air, much better hours and working with a great team who are passionate about what they do but also respect their team members. Was super grateful for Amber’s help with recruitment especially helping secure a position during Covid. Like all new careers there was a lot to take in and quite a few late nights of learning but after 2 months I am confident in my new role and am taking on exciting real world projects.