Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Understanding Workforce Development is the main topic of today’s blog synopsis of episode 008 of the Mix and Matchbox Podcast. Join host Brent Feldman and Laurie Wilson, Director of Partnership Outreach at Savvy Coders, discussing boot camps’ transformative power in tech education. They delve into how Savvy Coders is impacting the tech landscape by equipping underrepresented and underemployed individuals with essential tech skills, empowering them with better career opportunities.
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In today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape, workforce development has become a critical topic. With the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the tech industry, organizations like Savvy Coders are stepping up to bridge the skills gap. In this blog post, we will explore the journey of Laurie Wilson, the Director of Partnership Outreach at Savvy Coders, and how her experiences have shaped her understanding of workforce development.
Laurie Wilson’s Journey Into Tech
Laurie Wilson’s career began at Mastercard, where she held a technology role. After six years, she transitioned into recruiting, where she found a unique opportunity to connect business needs with technology talent. Over her extensive 30-year career, she has been involved in various technology companies, but the COVID-19 pandemic brought an unexpected change, leading her to Savvy Coders.
After losing her job, Laurie took the time to reflect on her career and was introduced to Elaine Quithum, the founder of Savvy Coders. Their conversation revealed the potential for improvement within the boot camp model, and Laurie realized her strengths aligned with the needs of Savvy Coders. This led to her current role, where she plays a vital part in preparing individuals for careers in technology.
The Shift In Workforce Development
Workforce development has become a buzzword, especially as companies recognize the need to invest in their workforce rather than merely exchanging mid-level and senior-level talent. Laurie has observed a growing trend where organizations are turning to boot camps like Savvy Coders to cultivate talent from within.
“Companies are starting to realize that they cannot just keep trading employees,” Laurie explains. “They need to invest in developing their own workforce.” This shift is critical in creating a stable and skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of the tech industry.
Skills In Demand At Savvy Coders
As the tech landscape evolves, certain skills are becoming increasingly vital. Laurie notes that cybersecurity is emerging as a significant area of focus, with organizations facing numerous cyber threats. Savvy Coders recently graduated its first cohort of cybersecurity students, demonstrating the organization’s responsiveness to industry needs.
Additionally, data analytics and Python skills are in high demand. “Data is the new currency,” Laurie emphasizes, highlighting the importance of equipping individuals with the capabilities to navigate and analyze data effectively.
What Sets Savvy Coders Apart
One of the standout features of Savvy Coders is the level of student support. With a limited cohort size of 15 students, instructors can offer personalized attention, ensuring that each student receives the guidance they need to succeed.
Another differentiator is the no-fee model for client partners. “We want to create a no-barrier-to-employment model,” Laurie explains. By removing financial barriers, Savvy Coders enables organizations to access a pool of talented graduates without the typical recruitment costs.
Making An Impact On Students’ Lives
Throughout her career, Laurie has worked with individuals who often lack access to opportunities in technology. “We focus on underrepresented and underemployed individuals who may not have the means to afford a traditional college education,” she shares. This mission allows Laurie to sleep well at night, knowing that she is helping people secure stable jobs and a better quality of life.
Diverse Student Backgrounds
The cohorts at Savvy Coders are made up of individuals from various backgrounds, including recent high school graduates and those looking to pivot from different careers. Laurie highlights the value of having experienced professionals in the boot camp, as they share real-life experiences that enrich the learning process for everyone.
This mix of backgrounds fosters a collaborative learning environment where students can learn from each other, enhancing their understanding of teamwork and real-world applications of their skills.
Characteristics Of A Good Candidate
When it comes to identifying potential candidates for Savvy Coders, Laurie emphasizes the importance of passion for technology and a willingness to learn. “We look for individuals who are continuous learners,” she states. Whether their interest in technology stems from video games or personal curiosity, the key is their drive to succeed.
Preparing Candidates For Interviews
Interview preparation is a crucial component of the Savvy Coders boot camp. Laurie takes the lead in helping students build their personal brands and communication skills. “We start working on their self-presentation from day one,” she explains.
As the program progresses, students participate in mock interviews, where they learn to navigate behavioral questions using the STAR methodology. This hands-on experience helps students gain confidence and prepares them for real-world interviews with potential employers.
Opportunities For Learning And Development
Laurie sees untapped potential in areas like WordPress and cloud computing. Given the increasing reliance on cloud technology, she believes there is a significant opportunity to develop boot camps that focus on these essential skills. “Digital design and marketing agencies need more WordPress experience,” she notes, indicating a demand that could be met through targeted training programs.
Reflections On Recruiting Practices
With years of experience in recruitment, Laurie has insights into what could improve the process. She believes that recruiting should be more personalized, allowing recruiters to understand candidates and client partners better. “There is a craft to recruiting,” Laurie emphasizes, advocating for a more thoughtful approach to matching candidates with roles that suit their skills and aspirations.
Conclusion
As the tech industry continues to evolve, organizations like Savvy Coders are playing a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce. By focusing on skills development, personalized support, and inclusivity, they are not only providing individuals with opportunities but also helping companies build a stronger, more competent workforce. Through Laurie Wilson’s leadership and vision, Savvy Coders is making a lasting impact in the world of workforce development. Savvy Coders will continue to work with companies like Matchbox Design Group in the community.
Savvy Coders Versus Other Bootcamps: Mix & Matchbox Podcast Episode 008
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