Never Stop Learning

Never Stop Learning

One of the most important qualities a programmer needs is the ability to never stop learning. In a field as complex as web development and an ever evolving technology landscape, it is of paramount importance to keep growing. I have already completed a fair amount of training and education, which allows me to work as a web developer. However, I want to take my skills to the next level. I want to become a software engineer.

Why Become a Software Engineer?

As an active web developer I use a plethora of tools and frameworks that help me render my services. To give you an idea – CraftCMS, WordPress, and Ruby on Rails are among the frameworks I use. Very often these frameworks are open-source, meaning that they are for free. As a matter of fact, large parts of the Internet are based on open-source software. In order to provide even better services and to give back to the open-source community, I feel compelled to start contributing. This is where the need for software engineering is essential. Instead of using (and customizing) software, I will need to be able to build software.

Software Engineering Track Apprenticeship

I first heard about BLOC when I was listening to one of the many excellent podcasts produced by Charles Max Wood. More specifically, it was Episode 241 – What Makes a Great Developer with Phil Spitler.

I signed up for one of BLOC’s info sessions about their Software Engineering Track. Here are the top reasons that lead me to signing up for the program:

  • One-on-one mentorship with an experienced software engineer who has at least 9 years of industry experience
  • Program is largely based on building software
  • Individualized complexity
  • Requirement to contribute to open-source software
  • Job guarantee after graduation (or tuition refund)
  • Flexible schedule and pace of program
  • Extensive curriculum
  • Proven track record

Follow My Journey

I will be writing a series of blog posts about my apprenticeship with BLOC. Follow me on Twitter, bookmark my Blog Page and sign up for my newsletter to stay up-to-date.