In November 2024, Oluwole Akani (Olu) completed Code Institute’s 16-Week High-Performance Full Stack Software Development bootcamp, funded and run in collaboration with Thames Valley LEP in Berkshire. The course equips learners with full-stack software development skills, preparing them to enter the digital workforce in various roles.
Robyn de Brún from Code Institute’s Careers Team had the following to say about Olu and the skills he has to offer employers:
“Olu diversified his skillset as a product manager by undertaking the Skills Bootcamp allowing him to pivot to digital products, complimenting his background in hardware. Olu demonstrated dedication and professionalism throughout his training and job search, ultimately leading him to a role with the NHS.’’
Olu has a background in project management and works for the NHS. He is now seeking to use his new skills in the digital workforce as a software developer.
Olu’s Interview
Tell us about yourself and how you found your way to this programme.
I was a hardware product manager who recently got made redundant, I came across the course through a Facebook advert. I was initially wary as I thought the offer seemed too good to be true, but it was actually a very good opportunity.
I wanted to do the course because I felt that knowing software development would make me a more well-rounded product manager, and I would be better informed when interacting with technical teams in my role with the NHS. I also have some entrepreneurial ideas that I would like to develop, and knowledge of code would help me execute these ideas.
What are you passionate about (in general)?
I’m passionate about technology, as I worked in the hardware industry for the past 20 years. I also found a new love for software and coding in the past five years.
In my personal life, I’m a big fan of sci-fi and comic books. The Matrix, Star Wars and Star Trek are big favourites. I did computer animation as an undergrad, so I like anything to do with animation, and it’s where my love for technology began.
What appeals to you about coding?
I enrolled in the course to enhance my skills as a digital product manager. While there’s some debate around the necessity of technical expertise for product managers, I believe it’s a valuable asset to have coding skills in this role. Additionally, these technical skills would allow me to take on a more hands-on role if I’m in a start-up environment.
What are the main things you learned on the course?
The course provided instruction in HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, JavaScript, and Python, which was instrumental in my understanding of agile development processes.
I enjoyed working with my fellow learners and enhancing my collaboration skills through the regular hackathons host, and also the way it helped me approach projects with structured processes.
How has the course helped you to progress?
It helped me understand the development of digital products, it also helped me develop my portfolio. It enhanced my comprehension of digital product development and bolstered my technical credentials, and consequently, I secured both an interview and employment without having to submit my CV.
What are the main challenges you have had to overcome while learning?
I was also doing a product management course at the same time so it was hard to juggle sometimes – but it was possible. Because the structure of the course was quite new, things were not as smooth sometimes, so I had to adapt to the changing environment, but this was a new skill to learn and something that could easily replicate a dynamic real-work scenario.
What do you like about learning on the Code Institute platform?
I thought it was intuitively designed and easy to follow. I like video-based learning, as I find it more engaging than blocks of text. The videos were really helpful for me, with coding examples to guide you through each lesson.
What are you most proud of developing so far?
My portfolio was instrumental in securing my current position. It served as a showcase of my skills, projects, and capabilities, allowing potential employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of my experience and expertise.
I built a task manager app as my final project, which turned out very well. I’m into project management so building this type of application suited my mindset perfectly.
What would you recommend to other learners considering learning to code?
You have to be patient, plan out your build using agile principles and learn some basic UX design principles to help the learning and development process go smoother for you.
What is your long-term goal with these skills?
I would like to grow as a product manager using these skills. I am very entrepreneurial and I have many ideas that I would like to build out. I can see myself doing that in the start-up world, so I would like to be able to put my coding skills to use to make these ideas a reality!
Learn Web Development
If you are interested in learning web development, you can register for our 5-Step Coding Challenge here. If you want to learn more about our training services, you can email partners@codeinstitute.net.
