Software Developer Apprentice Review

I am a software developer apprentice working in a team that delivers a containerised form of an IBM product. My job involves creating automation scripts for pipeline improvements, developing automated tests and builds as well as implementing new features to our operator that controls our container resources. There is a large amount of programming, problem-solving and collaborative working with my team.

I have developed an incredibly wide range of skills during my apprenticeship so far, from professional skills like presenting, communication & teamworking alongside more technical oriented skills such as new programming languages like golang & bash. I have also learned new technical knowledge and skills on topics I previously had no concept of, for my role.

My role is challenging and there is a significant learning curve to the work my team does but as I build up my skills I get more intensive and challenging work to further refine my abilities which is very fulfilling. The learning and university side can drag a little but most of it is still useful learning and knowledge to have although much of it doesn't directly apply to my specific role.

There is a fair amount of organisation through the foundation programme which acts as a resource to develop as an apprentice through courses and other opportunities. The matrix manager system is a little bit of a pain as its often difficult to get hold of certain managers but most of the time one of the other managers can solve the problem.

I receive a lot of help and training from my managers, team and through internal learning platforms. If I need to learn something there is either a course or pretty much anyone is happy to make some time to go through it with you and develop your understanding of a process or skill.

There are help sessions and online resources to assist with studying for my degree, you are also able to email tutors and get reasonably fast responses. The resources aren't always the useful or sometimes feel too shallow and only give you knowledge to complete the assignment and not fully understand a topic or concept.

There is a quite a major split between the content I learn for my degree compared to the knowledge I require for my specific role. There are some modules that apply to my developer role and give me better skills and understanding such as: software development & cybersecurity; however there are also a lot of modules that feel like they really don't apply to my role but are far more focused on business management and consultants.

There is a vast network of extra-curricular activities available through work such as sporting events, social gatherings / activities and organised networking events. I am already involved in a lot of events and sporting opportunities that allow me to meet new people on the other-side of the business and network through many different pathways.

Yes

IBM really feels like more than just a job, everyone is passionate about what they do and very keep to help you improve and develop. There is an incredibly strong culture that feels less like a strict work environment but more like a community of like-minded people that want to network and get involved in activities together.

The most important part is to be your true self as that is something the company values a lot. They are looking for you to demonstrate that you can work in a team towards a mutual goal and most importantly be active in solving problems. Overall its about showing your skills off and demonstrating that you can help the business develop.