Software Developer Review

My day-to-day involves investigating bugs customers discover when using an IBM product out in the field. This involves working with the clients to clarify the problem, reading and understanding the product code to find the problem, coding and testing a solution and then shipping a software patch to the customer.

I've developed and continue to develop my coding skills since I started to write code regularly, even though the language I write in is rarely used I find that coding skills are very transferrable between languages. I also get opportunities to develop presentation, organisation and critical thinking skills, amongst other skills.

My experience with Open University has been overwhelmingly positive so far. I've got access to a practice tutor who is always available for questions. I had visibility of the content for my course many months before I need to have it done, which gives me tremendous flexibility as to when I complete it. The only downside of OU is that learning inevitably involves long periods of reading which requires self-discipline.

I'd say OU have structured its programme very well. I've been on the program for 5 months now and am already aware of all of the modules I'll be studying over the next 3 years, when I'll study them and all the other tasks I need to complete in order to finish this apprenticeship. OU also recognise prior learning through its RPL programme which can be used to shorten the programme where applicable.

My manager is very accommodating of my apprenticeship, they worked with my to sign up to the apprenticeship and are always very considerate of my workload around deadlines. I don't feel pressure from my team to complete the same amount of work as other who are not currently studying. Every IBMer I speak to seems to appreciate that studying computer science will in the long term make me a more productive developer.

Enough, I have access to a module tutor for each module who is available for learning material-specific questions. I also have access to a practice tutor who is available for programme-wide queries and meets with me every couple of months to review progress and give advice. OU also provide a surplus of learning material which I could work through if I had the time and inclination.

Learning about the software development lifecycle and service management has hugely improved my understanding of my role, team and where the IBM product I work on fits into the wider market. I find that a lot of the knowledge gained from qualifications like a bachelor's will have applications in my day-to-day role but I won't see those applications until I have the necessary knowledge and skills. Also, you never know where you'll end up in the future so I think it's good to have a range of skills.

IBM is a huge community of different and interesting people. There are always networking events to get involved in if you look for them. The Hursley lab is home to over 2000 developers so has many clubs and communities people can get involved in, from yoga clubs to rock climbing groups.

Yes

I'd recommend IBM to anyone interested in technology. Although most people don't realise it, IBM tech is everywhere and is very much essential to today's technology-reliant world. The company is huge and operates in a huge range of fields within Information Technology, which gives IBMers the chance to work in different areas if they want to and find a role they enjoy. IBM has a focus on continued learning and is usually generous when employees want to pressure IT certifications. IBM has also adopted hybrid working, hopefully for the long term which gives employees great flexibility about whether to work onsite or from home (where possible).

Even if you think you don't stand a good chance of getting onto one of IBM's apprenticeships, go for it. I didn't have the grades or experience when I applied and I got through, which I didn't expect! Make sure you're aware of the company, doing some relevant projects in your spare time will sound great in an interview.