You Don't Need a Tech Degree to Be a Senior Engineer
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We are two non-traditional engineers. One of us graduated from a bootcamp and worked under a mentor at a startup. One of us is a self-taught developer who learned on the job through a series of IT department positions. We’ve taken the long road and learned hard lessons on our way to our...
We are two non-traditional engineers. One of us graduated from a bootcamp and worked under a mentor at a startup. One of us is a self-taught developer who learned on the job through a series of IT department positions. We’ve taken the long road and learned hard lessons on our way to our current positions as senior software engineers in an established and successful engineering org. Even though our paths are different, we’ve both experienced an evolution from learning to code to focusing on solving problems.
In this chat, find out:
- What we wish we could go back in time and tell our junior developer selves
- What habits we’ve curated that have continued to serve us well
- What are the most meaningful facets of our work
- Common lessons from the past 5 years and what the next 5 years look like
Meet The Speakers
Autumn is a front end engineer at CallRail, a company on a mission to build an ecosystem of tools serving metrics-driven marketers. She’s passionate about creating great user experiences, writing code that tells a clear story, and growing purposeful teams. Outside of work, she enjoys fostering dogs with the Doberman Rescue of Atlanta, trying super spicy foods, and risking her life as a cyclist commuter in Atlanta. She hates two things - doing things halfway and doing the dishes.
Amanda is a back-end engineer at CallRail. She gets excited when she is able to establish clean and useful data and data abstraction patterns, writing code that is easily maintainable for current and future developers, and collaborating on a diverse team. She is a frequenter on the Atlanta BeltLine and loves to host volleyball games at her local park on the weekends. She also is in dire need of any covid-safe live music events … so please feel free to send suggestions her way!
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Q&A
Q&A guidelines-
How have you prioritized self-care and boundaries while working through the pandemic?
By: AmyPosted on 2021-05-18 -
How do you handle interacting with colleagues who have a more traditional or higher level of CS education than you?
By: SabrinaPosted on 2021-05-18 -
Don't have any question at this moment, just wanted to attend the discussion
By: PratyushaPosted on 2021-05-18 -
How long did it take you to prepare for the technical interviews? What were the resources that you used for your preparation (books, online interview training courses, mock interviews)?
By: Kristy, Fullstack DeveloperPosted on 2021-05-18 -
How do you manage/facilitate keeping your skills up to date and relevant?
By: Stephanie, Software EngineeringPosted on 2021-05-18 -
What is is like being a women in tech?
By: AshleyPosted on 2021-05-18 -
Has your non-technical background helped you work with non-technical coworkers? How?
By: GrantPosted on 2021-05-18 -
Hi Looking forward to the class. I don't want to code but have a general understanding.
By: Tessa, Vendor ManagementPosted on 2021-05-18 -
Can expertise in other fields, such as teaching, can help to progress in this career path?
By: Jolanta, TeachingPosted on 2021-05-18 -
Those who want to switch from other industries, what suggestions would you give to negotiate salary/pay. We'll probably only be given entry-level jobs in the beginning. Many not be able to sustain...
By: Sahithya, Content WriterPosted on 2021-05-18 -
Trying to find flexibility and a career that can take me out of the 9-5
By: CarolPosted on 2021-05-18 -
Does CallRail still offer its software developer apprenticeship program?
By: GraemePosted on 2021-05-17 -
How do employers typically view self taught/bootcamp graduates vs those with software engineering degrees?
By: Brandy, Scrum MasterPosted on 2021-05-17 -
I'm currently studying Front-End Development at SkillCrush. I started from zero, as in I had no idea what HTML was, and I am finishing my JavaScript course. Though I've learned so much during this...
By: Andrea, Account CoordinatorPosted on 2021-05-17 -
How long did it take you to study and to find a job?
By: Anya, Backend DeveloperPosted on 2021-05-17 -
How do you maintain your motivation if/when you hit a lull or brick wall in your training/continuing education?
By: KevinPosted on 2021-05-17 -
At the start of 2021 I began my courses into software engineering, but I’m learning that with my marketing and web development background, there are other opportunities that may fit me better that...
By: hayley, Software EngineeringPosted on 2021-05-17 -
I am on the verge of trying to reinvent myself. I have worked for offices of non-profits, state agencies, medical and recently federal where I worked in IT Tech. Will this be beneficial to me?
By: Sheila, ExecutivePosted on 2021-05-17 -
Are there any paid internship programs you would recommend? Thank you!
By: VeroniquePosted on 2021-05-17 -
What is the best coding language for beginners to learn? How to get experience outside of the job?
By: Carolyn, Product OwnerPosted on 2021-05-17 -
How did you know when you were ready to apply for your first position?
By: Tavette, Software EngineeringPosted on 2021-05-17 -
What is next for you both after "Senior Engineer"? Is there a key thing one should focus on to continue advancing?
By: JustinPosted on 2021-05-17 -
What should we look for in a boot camp?
By: Sheena, Customer ServicePosted on 2021-05-17 -
Do you need a portfolio of projects in addition to your resume? If so, what types of projects should be included?
By: MaryannPosted on 2021-05-17 -
duration of the course?
By: Chris, TeacherPosted on 2021-05-17 -
What are some great first steps to take right after a bootcamp?
By: S.Posted on 2021-05-17 -
What is your recommendation if you want to begin exploring courses or certifications what resources are there to begin your learning experience?
By: Emma, Risk & Marketing ManagerPosted on 2021-05-17 -
How did you know what direction you wanted to take your career when there are so many options after learning to code? How did you find a mentor? What types of things did you discuss with your mentor?
By: RosePosted on 2021-05-17 -
What are the best employment platforms to use for job postings?
By: RavenPosted on 2021-05-17 -
What is the best way to try out a new tech position/career having another job?
By: MonserratPosted on 2021-05-17 -
How did you choose specific bootcamp admits so many ? How you designed your self study path ?
By: Aditi, DeveloperPosted on 2021-05-17 -
What skills outside of your boot camp did you need to hone to truly be considered for an entry level job?
By: KristenPosted on 2021-05-17 -
Where in 2021 would you suggest someone begin, in terms of resources and valuable skills to develop?
By: Gregory, Sales and MarketingPosted on 2021-05-17 -
I would like to know how long it took (e.g. how many hours a week did you study, and how many weeks / years). Secondly, what programs exactly do I need to know?
By: KatePosted on 2021-05-17 -
How to convince a hiring manager to take a chance on you?
By: Wendy, Frontend DeveloperPosted on 2021-05-17 -
What makes you unique that will cause employers to go for you being a self-taught engineer to a computer graduate.
By: Olawale, Fullstack DeveloperPosted on 2021-05-17 -
What technical skills and soft skills are key to moving me towards being a senior. My assumption here is that you can achieve seniority through putting work in, and not just having been an...
By: NaijeriaPosted on 2021-05-17 -
Which soft skills have you found to be the the most highly regarded for software engineers? Is there a less common all that gives you access to more interesting roles?
By: Fiona, Business DevelopmentPosted on 2021-05-17 -
How did you know that going into software engineering was the right thing for you?
By: Pamela, Mechanical EngineerPosted on 2021-05-17 -
How long were you a junior developer before advancing to the positions you have now?
By: Karen, Frontend DeveloperPosted on 2021-05-17 -
I need to pay for these course?
By: JAYREDDYPosted on 2021-05-17 -
How long would it take to learn?
By: Maria, Customer Deployment ManagerPosted on 2021-05-17 -
Do you see programming growing in the future? If so, in what specific industries?
By: NancyPosted on 2021-05-17 -
Is there an online community or platform that you recommend women can join to receive guidance as they try to transition into SWE roles? As someone with no technical background, let alone a CS...
By: Marlén, Account ManagerPosted on 2021-05-17 -
My questions have been posted. I’m excited to hear feedback. Thank you!
By: JoellaPosted on 2021-05-17 -
How do you proof your expertise as a developer without a degree?
By: KellyPosted on 2021-05-17 -
What pitfalls should one avoid when considering this career path?
By: Katrina, Customer ServicePosted on 2021-05-17 -
Are internships beneficial if you have the right IT certifications but no real world experience?
By: RheaPosted on 2021-05-17 -
I'm 42 and I'm just finishing a CS software developer program and I feel like I am climbing an uphill battle even before I begin my job search. I had significant tech experience prior to the...
By: Tammy, Corporate Deposit SpecialistPosted on 2021-05-17 -
do have any advice for places to apply for a junior front end role? Thanks!
By: Amanda, Frontend DeveloperPosted on 2021-05-17 -
How did you become a Senior engineer? Did you take less money? What is your current income range? How did you gain credibility?
By: Angie, Fullstack DeveloperPosted on 2021-05-17 -
How do you convince employer prospects to take a chance on you when you have little experience in a saturated market?
By: Sarah, Marketing & PR LeaderPosted on 2021-05-17 -
This webinar interests me as a former .net web developer that stopped 10 years ago and wants to get caught up on the latest and greatest out there. Primarily with a focus on e-commerce. Any...
By: Kristie, Director of EcommercePosted on 2021-05-17 -
What’s the best way to learn coding as a newbie to tech?
By: OluwafunmbiPosted on 2021-05-16 -
How do you research and find the right training program?
By: Amber, Marketing & PR LeaderPosted on 2021-05-16 -
are there any free training that requires no amount of registration fees to get a certification and skills training for a career opportunity or having an own tech business.
By: Christian, Web developerPosted on 2021-05-16 -
What are the best languages to learn?
By: Amy, Product ManagerPosted on 2021-05-16 -
How long did it take to get from the ground floor to where you are now?
By: Jazz, Technical Program Project ManagerPosted on 2021-05-16 -
I’m currently taking a full stack boot camp. I am also a new mom and would like to stay home. Would pursuing a career in the field be more reasonable than attempting to freelance as a new developer?
By: Shaelyce, Mechanical EngineerPosted on 2021-05-16 -
What is a realistic timeframe to go from zero to successfully freelancing as a self-taught developer? Any advice for career changer over 40?
By: Ethelean, Virtual AssistantPosted on 2021-05-16 -
Best course/program/boot camp for a career change?
By: Michelle, Pricing SpecialistPosted on 2021-05-16 -
Recommended number of projects to show capabilities?
By: Camille, SAP FICA ConsultantPosted on 2021-05-16 -
what courses do you recommend for self-study?
By: Michelle, Virtual AssistantPosted on 2021-05-16 -
I've completed my bootcamp and have a brief internship (4 weeks) under my belt. I need to work remotely. What's your best advice for getting my first job? What worked for you or others you know?
By: Jessica, Software EngineeringPosted on 2021-05-16 -
What kind of project would look good on a portfolio for a junior developer - someone who´s transitioning to software development?
By: Carla, Affiliate AnalystPosted on 2021-05-16 -
I’m excited to hear about your experience. I just signed up for Skillcrush Break into Tech, do you have any tips or advice on how to excel in these type of “bootcamps”? Thank you
By: Krystal, Program Project ManagerPosted on 2021-05-16 -
How easy is it to transition from a Marketing background to coding/development?
By: Molly, Content WriterPosted on 2021-05-16 -
Should I get two certifications in IT in order to make me employable and in demand?
By: Roberto, Operations AnalystPosted on 2021-05-16 -
Looking for low cost and mentor opportunities to get started in the tech industry. Any suggestions/advise?
By: CatherinePosted on 2021-05-16 -
He does one overcome ageism in tech?
By: Laxmi, Technical Program Project ManagerPosted on 2021-05-16 -
I want to know the simple pathway to being a software engineer. I am currently studying for CCNA. Do you think I should continue studying computer networking?
By: Sunday, Inventory analystPosted on 2021-05-16 -
Just interested in tools used for self study
By: LeannePosted on 2021-05-16 -
How is the work life balance in the tech industry?
By: Tashana, WriterPosted on 2021-05-16 -
What self-study programs have credibility or how can one assess the certificate is actually valuable in the industry?
By: Anna, Event plannerPosted on 2021-05-16 -
No, I don't have at the moment. The whole topic is very tempting and interesting so I am looking forward to hear more about it. Thanks for organizing it!
By: Jelena, HR ProfessionalPosted on 2021-05-16 -
How do I start in the tech career?
By: Adedamola, Project managerPosted on 2021-05-16 -
When learning how to code, how did you overcome the obstacles of getting stuck. Which resources did you use to help you.
By: Margareth, Fullstack DeveloperPosted on 2021-05-16 -
Is there a generally understood industry minimum time of experience to be seriously considered for Jr positions? Thanks!
By: StephaniePosted on 2021-05-16 -
How can I learn programming from the scratch?
By: Olu, Social Media EditorPosted on 2021-05-16 -
When starting to code which programming language did you focus?
By: Ana María, Software EngineerPosted on 2021-05-15 -
How to stand out as a fresher
By: Samanvay, Java developerPosted on 2021-05-15 -
What do you recommend for someone looking to expand their work without quitting their job? I'm a QA engineer and just accepted a job at a new company, where I will be the only(!) QA and also...
By: Moriah, Quality Assurance Analyst IIPosted on 2021-05-14 -
What type of portfolii projects would you recommend having completed? Do you need to check off all the required skills in order to apply for jobs?
By: Keara, Ecommerce specialistPosted on 2021-05-14 -
How did you find your mentors?
By: Daniel, Fullstack DeveloperPosted on 2021-05-14 -
What inspired you both to become developers?
By: Michelle, Business AnalystPosted on 2021-05-13 -
Is it hard for moms to keep up with the tech field as a developer ?
By: Cecilia, Customer ServicePosted on 2021-05-13 -
What are the tradeoffs between pursuing fullstack vs choosing to specialize in frontend or backend?
By: DanPosted on 2021-05-13 -
How do you know which technical skills to hone in on mastering?
By: RachelPosted on 2021-05-13 -
How do you know your ready for a senior engineer position and how would you go about marketing your self if you don’t have much experience?
By: Ola, Frontend DeveloperPosted on 2021-05-13 -
How should one approach answering interview questions about qualifications when lacking a Tech degree ? And how to get Senior level technical job interviews, without a Tech degree ?
By: Melanie, QA EngineerPosted on 2021-04-27 -
As a boot camp grad, what can I work on to make me just as much of a viable candidate as a college graduate. What do boot camps lack in their curriculum?
By: NakitaPosted on 2021-04-26
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