DevSecOps Engineer Review

Working with the client to deliver technical solutions - creating/using scripts, applying data fixes, interacting with the data platforms and business teams.

I have developed almost every skill related to DevSecOps during my apprenticeship, before my apprenticeship I was not very familiar with DevSecOps apart from just using python so I have come a long way. I have learnt about infrastructure, deployments, production environments, governance, etc.

My work side is pretty enjoyable, I have meaningful and fulfilling work to do, additionally since I am in Consulting I can switch projects every year or so on and have different experiences. My uni side gives me a lot of stress as I tend to procrasinate for deadlines.

I think the program is excellent for producing well-rounded tech professionals, I do feel like the degree and the actual job roles are not as closely related which means that it can feel useless at times especially considering what I already learn from my job.

I have multiple layers of support at work, my foundation (early professional) manager, my line manager and team leads, my career coach from my practice, I have many people who I can go and ask for help, however I feel there isn't enough 'emotional' support so to speak.

My university mentor is great and tries to guide me to make sure I am keeping on track with my degree, however most of the work is independent and I have to figure out what to do as it is relevant to my job and sometimes they are unable to help.

There have been little scenarios where what I learn in my degree helps my role, usually it is the other way around, maybe some technical concepts like learning about SQL and overall databases helped me understand more, but usually I would say my role gives me the skills which I then have to prove in my degree, which feels slightly redundant sometimes.

There are many communities at work, some for early professionals and some within my practice, I sometimes attend events like football 5-a-sides and there are climbing events and so on. It depends slightly on what part of the company you join some areas have more and others less extra-curricular activities, however IBMers are encouraged to organise their own events with each other and the organisation can help with setting up events.

Yes

I think IBM is a massive company which brings forth great opportunity, I think the fact that there are so many early professionals is a testament to IBM's bet on young talent and there are many areas in which IBM is great at supporting early professionals to become more skilled and experienced and accelerate their careers. I have very little to complain about from my work side, I am very thankful I can obtain the experience I am getting at this stage in my career.

IBMers are unique, try to show how you are different and what you bring to the table, you don't have to be the most technical, the smartest or anything but as long as you can help others and collaborate to move things forward you will shine through the interview process. Additionally, assess your apprenticeship options very carefully and understand the time commitment of each option as well as how this will affect your work/life/study balance. There are pro's and con's to each apprenticeship pathway so understand whether you value the qualification or the learning more.