Software Developler Review

My role as a software developer consists of maintaining the testing infrastructure of a billion dollar application called MQ. I am responsible for setting machines up and configuring them correctly whilst finding defects and problems within the existing code, or new changes, to fix them and ensure that the product works as intended.

I have learnt many skills from software fundamentals to programming languages to infrastructure basics and how things are run in a software development environment. The amount of knowledge gained is extraordinary however this is all up to the person if they want to learn or not. Languages I have learnt in 6 months are: Python, Perl, Java, little bit of batch, little bit of C#, little bit of HTML + CSS

I really do enjoy my programme since it provides me with new opportunities every day. There is no limit to how much you learn depending on how far you reach for it. When working in this environment you really get to understand how these environments work and as a software developer, that's what you should want to know.

The organisation could be better since I am being trained by an external company, however, this is not IBM's fault and purely on Firebrand to provide the standard of training. There hasn't been much contact with Firebrand and not much is sent to you except things to do, not much communication at all. When you do want to communicate, it can be very difficult.

As an apprentice, your role has to be independent, this means working in an environment with minimal support and expecting to get work done. Support is there whenever you need it but it would be your job to go out and find this support, it will not just come to you when you struggle.

Support received from my training provider is again, minimal. This is nothing to do with IBM but the structure of how Firebrand works. The exams are tightly packed within the course for learning the exam and material isn't sent to you a long time prior but instead maybe a month prior to the exam.

The qualification does help my role quite a bit, to be honest. The training provides me with knowledge on how to work in software development environments and how the software development lifecycle operates. All this knowledge is like the fundamentals of what you need to know when working in areas like this.

There are countless activities to take on where I work. Always almost every day there is something on, whether it is a walk around Hursley, a pub event, a volunteering opportunity, learning events. The possibilities are endless and again, it is all up to the person if they want to take these on and participate.

Yes

IBM provides an amazing background. They provide you with very good pay, they teach you countless things, they provide you with opportunities that no other company could. The environment around you will only boost your learning and your soft skills. The experience is the best thing with IBM. To say you have worked in IBM is a gold star on your jacket and will get you almost anywhere in the industry.

When applying, make the effort with the interviews, show your true interest, your keenness, your beliefs, your knowledge. Do not belittle past achievements when applying but instead exaggerate them. If you do not believe that you are worthy, the interviewer will not either. The key to making through the interviews and process is showing your pure interests and making sure you enter with a growing mindset.