Alright, so I wanted to get into tech, but I didn’t go the typical four-year college route. I heard about these “tech apprenticeship programs” and figured I’d give it a shot. Seattle seemed like a good place to try, since, you know, it’s a tech hub and all that.
First, I just started Googling. I typed in stuff like “tech apprenticeships Seattle” and “learn coding Seattle” – you know, the basics. I found a bunch of websites, some for companies, some for coding bootcamps, and some that were just general lists of programs.
It was kinda overwhelming, honestly. There were so many options! I spent a few days just clicking around, trying to figure out what each program was about. Some were focused on web development, others on data analysis, and a few even on things like cybersecurity.
Narrowing Down My Options
I knew I wanted something hands-on. I’m not the best at sitting in a classroom all day. I learn by doing. So I started looking for programs that emphasized practical experience, like building real projects or working with actual clients.
I also wanted something that didn’t require a ton of prior experience. I mean, I knew how to use a computer, but I wasn’t exactly a coding whiz. So I looked for programs that were specifically designed for beginners.
- I started making a spreadsheet (yeah, I know, super nerdy) to keep track of all the programs I was interested in.
- I listed things like the program’s focus (web dev, data, etc.), the length, the cost (some were free, some were NOT), and any prerequisites.
- That helped me narrow it down to a handful of programs that seemed like a good fit.
Applying and Interviewing
Next up was the application process. This was kinda nerve-wracking. Some programs just had a simple online form, while others required essays, coding challenges, and even video interviews. I spent a lot of time polishing my resume and practicing my answers to common interview questions.
I remember one interview where they asked me to explain a technical concept in simple terms. I totally blanked for a second, but then I remembered something I’d learned in a free online course and managed to muddle through. I guess it worked, because I got accepted!
The Apprenticeship Begins!
The apprenticeship itself was intense, but in a good way. I was learning something new every day, and I was actually building stuff! I was part of a small team, and we worked on real projects for real clients. It was challenging, for sure, but I had a mentor who was always there to help me when I got stuck.
We used version control tools, and the importance of clean code. At the end I had created a portfolio to show my work, it felt great!
It wasn’t always easy. There were times when I felt like I was in over my head, but I kept pushing through. And you know what? I made it. It was a wild ride, but it was definitely worth it.
So, that’s my story of how I got into tech through an apprenticeship program in Seattle. It’s not the traditional path, but it worked for me. If you’re thinking about a career change, I definitely recommend looking into it!
