Tech Elevator Reviews
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Melanie Anderson Verified via LinkedIn
Truly Elevating
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As someone nervous about switching career paths entirely, Tech Elevator really helped me thrive on my new journey. I felt like the information learned at Tech Elevator is extremely relevant to the current development world and the way in which the material was introduced was very digestible for someone with little to no programming background. The most evident attribute made clear to me throughout the whole program is that Tech Elevator is passionate about having their graduates succeed. They want you to find a job ASAP after their program and they help you to get there by providing whatever resources they can. If you invest 100% into the program you will get every benefit out of it and they will help you achieve those goals. The staff is absolutely excellent. The instructors are extremely knowledgeable, the pathway directors are a wealth of support and the entire team clearly wants you to succeed. The remote setting was still very engaging and well structured and the networking opportunities are invaluable. I took another bootcamp upon landing my first job and it became evident to me how much better the Tech Elevator environment and instructors were from that bad experience. The only slight negative for me personally was that being located on the West Coast, the Tech Elevator network has not quite expanded as much to my area. They are really established in the mid-west and have excellent connections there. However, they are branching out and with the shift to a more remote/online work environment, opportunities are easier to find all over the country.
If you are seriously considering a shift into the development world you should absolutely apply to Tech Elevator, I know I'm glad I did.
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Ben Williams Verified via LinkedIn
Quality Training & Job Hunt Support
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For several years I had been interested in learning how to code, and I was introduced to Tech Elevator by a childhoold friend who was the then Campus Director. She called me to see if my current employer would be interested in hiring junior devs, however that department wasn't in Cincinnati. In any case, she was able to give me great insight on the program, and I trusted her since we went way back. When circumstances finally aligned I applied and was accepted (I actually applied twice and was accepted twice, but timing didn't line up the first time).
I can't say enough good things about the training. I felt they did a really great job even though we were still in the midst of the pandemic and everything was remote.
After graduation the pandemic was still going and I felt like I was slugging through the hiring process without much success. However, I met regularly with my Pathway Director who helped me continue to tweak my resume, update my LinkedIn and offer her expertise with my job hunt. She also continued to match me with prospective employers when the opportunity would arise. And, finally it happened. I got an offer about 5 months after graduation.
I come from a sales background, and I understand the importance of delivering on the expectations that I would set for new customers. Tech Elevator certainly delivered on the expectations they set.
Finally, I know people from my class who still haven't gotten a job in tech. They make up that small percentage of people who it doesn't happen for in six months, but I feel pretty confortable in saying that it isn't for a lack of effort on Tech Elevator's part. Tech Elevator has the curriculum and the support to help people transition in to tech; all that is required from you is effort! -
Mohiuddin Kader Verified via LinkedIn
full stack Java developer
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last 4-5 years I was trying to join the coding world - never had proper training -- after that, the best decision I took is to join Tech Elevator. They just didn't teach me coding but the way it's used in real-life jobs. Perfect course structure in Covid timing -- I was doing National Live Remote - but I never felt that it's an online course - from Sococo to slack - my instructor Andy Chong Sam is always there for us even late at late evening. I also like to thank Margaret Green for covering all my needs. Besides learning, I also had great advice on job preparation from Peggy. And after graduation now I got an offer and I will join there in June 2021. It's like dream come true and thank Tech Elevator for that. -
Geoff Brown Verified via LinkedIn
Tech Elevator is Respected
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I'm pleased to say that two weeks after graduating from Tech Elevator in April 2021 I was offered and accepted a job testing the software for the infotainment systems in vehicles at Honda R&D Marysville. If it weren't for Tech Elevator I would never have had this opportunity. My family and I could not be happier with my decision. If you're considering attending Tech Elevator but have some questions, keep reading to see what I thought of my experience. Spoiler-alert: It was the best decision I've ever made for my career.
Throughout my adult life I was in and out of college, never really knowing what I wanted to do. I failed time and time again pursuing a degree so I decided to put that on hold and advance my career in the food service industry. I learned a lot, and earned a living wage, but I wanted more for myself and my family. I wanted options in what career I could pursue, and what companies I could apply to. I wanted to challenge myself to complete something difficult, but worthwhile. So after 14 years serving food and managing restaurants I decided to take a complete 180 and move into the tech industry, and that started at Tech Elevator.
I had a few options to choose from for coding bootcamps, but I landed on Tech Elevator for a few reasons. For one, the graduation and job placement rates were impressive (and yes, they are accurate). Being a father of 3 meant I needed to find a good job fast after graduation, and Tech Elevator provided that through their unique pathway program. Starting in the application process to Tech Elevator, before you even attend your first lecture, you meet with a pathway director to discuss your goals and see if the bootcamp is a good fit for you. Throughout the program you are given hands-on help with writing your resume, crafting your elevator pitch (a 45 second mini-speech on who you are and what you bring to the table for prospective companies), and building your LinkedIn profile. You also get to meet future employers in group settings, and in real, one-on-one interviews. I had 7 interviews before the program was over, and I know many of my classmates had job offers even before graduation, it's not uncommon! To top it all off, they will support you officially for up to 6 months after you graduate (but unofficially for as long as you need their help).
Another reason I chose Tech Elevator is because their name is respected in the tech industry. Almost every single employer I talked with said that they keep coming back to Tech Elevator because they've hired high quality candidates from their graduate pool in the past. Simply being a graduate of Tech Elevator will help you get your foot in the door because employers know that it takes a person who is driven to learn and succeed to complete the bootcamp, and at the end of the day that's what matters in the tech industry.
One fear I had going into it was if I could even finish the bootcamp. My track record with school hadn't been great, and this was an entirely new industry for me. Fortunately, the curriculum has been masterfully built. You learn a lot of content at break-neck speed, but every concept builds on what you've learned so far. It just works. Not to mention the instructors are all experts in the field.
The last thing I want to say is that what blew me away most, besides the amazing pathway program, and the phenomenal curriculum, was the dedication of the staff at Tech Elevator. Everyone from the administrators, to the directors, to the instructors and their assistants were available whenever you needed them (even most nights and weekends!) to help you with anything. It could be help with a coding assignment, or even if you just need an ear to talk to when you're feeling overwhelmed. The program is indeed hard, but the support available and offered to you is out of this world. -
Lindsay Leigh Verified via LinkedIn
What are you waiting for?
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I cannot recommend Tech Elevator enough! It was one of the best decisions I made for myself. As a 30-something, college graduate, I found myself in unfulfilling work, unrelated to my studies, and not happy with my salary. I felt stuck since the jobs I felt I did qualify for, I really wasn’t interested in applying for. I knew I needed to find something I could see myself doing longterm and I knew it would require me to learn a valuable skill. I started learning to code on my own and I knew right away that this was the path I should be taking, so I decided to hit the fast forward button and enroll in Tech Elevator. Fourteen weeks later, I was interviewing with my top pick, and I now am set to start a job there next week.
Reflecting on my time at Tech Elevator, not only did I learn so much, I met a lot of great people along the way. I know I have made lifelong friends as well as have built a strong network. My instructor, Walt, is an amazing teacher and his patience and knowledge are incomparable! Ellen, Stephen, and Jennifer are amazing mentors when it comes to learning how to market yourself to potential employers and they truly care about everyone finding success after the cohort. I really can’t say enough about all of the staff at the Pittsburgh Campus!
My recommendation for anyone considering doing a bootcamp, is to do your research. I chose Tech Elevator because of their Pathway Program and their strong job placement rate and they did not disappoint. The curriculum is amazing too. They jam pack a lot of stuff in those 14 weeks and the process of learning and then implementing what you learn in smaller homework problems and then compounding it into bigger capstone projects really helps solidify everything. I would also recommend learning some coding on your own prior to starting, to make sure this is something you truly enjoy and also to prepare for the intensity of the bootcamp. Tell your friends and family you are going to be super busy, and maybe give your house a deep cleaning before you start! You may not have time for anything else, but that’s ok! It’s a small sacrifice for what you will get in the end.
My foremost advice for anyone considering Tech Elevator is: what are you waiting for? You can do this! It will be hard, but making a change and putting yourself out there rarely ever isn’t hard. If you really want to make this change and are willing to put in the time and effort, DO IT! -
Jareth Antona Verified via LinkedIn
Just Do It
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OverviewSimply put, choosing Tech Elevator as your coding bootcamp will be the best decision you can make in your life IF and ONLY IF you are ready to live and breathe code and put in the work. I usually dedicated my hours between 9am-9pm, with a few breaks sprinkled in between, to the coursework. By the end of the program, I was offered a job as a software engineer for a really awesome company. Tech Elevator is a program that works and I am living proof that you can become a software developer after going through a coding bootcamp. CourseworkSo, how hard is it? Very hard, but also very doable! The coursework is intended to be extremely challenging and is not for the faint of heart. Everyday you are held accountable in attending lectures, completing everyday assignments, passing daily quizzes, and reading the textbook. If I had one piece of advice for you, aim to understand everything and see how everything connects. In the end, if you are able to explain what you learned to a 6-year old, then you understand it! I can tell you from experience that it is very tempting to complete an assignment quickly, hand it in, and call it a day and have a margarita or play some video games. DO NOT do that. Establish good habits as early as possible! The real assignment is not completed until YOU understand the material. A lot of my time spent during Tech Elevator was doing a lot of focused self-studying trying to make concepts that don't make sense actually make sense. My self-studying included watching recorded lectures, reading the textbook, and even breaking my code just so I can fix it up again. Software development, in my opinion, is as abstract as it gets and it requires a level of thinking that our brain is just not used to. Studying hard and being able to fully grasp the material will pay off tremendously when it is time for technical interviews and take-home coding assignments. You will get to that point eventually! Once you are there, you cannot fake your way through a technical interview. You have to be prepared. Tech Elevator, however, will make sure that you are prepared. Just remember to put in the time and effort.
Pathway The other side of the Tech Elevator curriculum is their pathway program. Pathway is the term used to describe their “career preparation” side of the curriculum. Unlike other bootcamps, pathway events are mandatory and you are held accountable to attending all pathway meetings. You will learn and master soft skills in crafting clean elevator pitches, knowing what to say and what not to say in an interview, developing your "personal brand", and much more. Learning all the technical information is one thing, but the other (in my opinion, more important) thing is being able to present yourself warmly to employers. The Pathway staff will be there with you every step of the way.
ConclusionBy the end of the program, you would have multiple assignments completed, have proficiencies in important areas of full stack web development, have skills necessary to smash your interviews and, above all else, have a super supportive network of Tech Elevator staff. I always like to say that if you WANT to become a developer, you WILL become a developer. When times get tough, remind yourself why you joined Tech Elevator in the first place. Keep the same drive you had in Day 1 throughout the bootcamp and I promise you things will turn out great in the end. But also, aside from dedicating nearly every waking hour to the bootcamp, remember to take breaks! Both long and short! Power naps and the pomodoro method helped me tremendously in managing my focus throughout the day and I think it can help you too.
Happy coding, and good luck! -
Traci Stocker Verified via LinkedIn
Java Bootcamp
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After enjoying a successful 13-year career in customer service and sales, I decided to pursue my interest in programming and enroll in Tech Elevator. BEST DECISION EVER! Besides offering the opportunity to get a jump start in the tech industry by offering a comprehensive curriculum, they also provide expert guidance on resume building and interview training.
If you are on the fence about attending a coding bootcamp or trying to teach yourself how to code, I highly recommend Tech Elevator. I just cannot say enough good things about the curriculum, the instructors and the support staff. -
Jesse Hofmann Verified via LinkedIn
Best experience learning
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I was an accounting college dropout who wanted to career pivot to software development. After 2 years of teaching myself, I sought an opportunity at a boot camp and found Tech Elevator. After getting accepted, I had some nerves. It is intensive and only 14 weeks. During my time I met many instructors who were extremely helpful and always willing to meet if they were available. The pathway program is really what set this apart. Talking with students from other boot camps, nothing offers the career help that I received. I could not recommend Tech Elevator enough! -
Nicholas Weller Verified via LinkedIn
Java Pittsburgh
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I've taken IT courses off and on for about 17 years. The 14 weeks spent at Tech Elevator better prepared me for the real world than any of my dozens of previous instructors or the three random colleges I have attended in different states.
Group lessons and projects are incredibly valuable. Learning agile methodology from the beginning is an excellent skill to pick up and, and the remote learning environment is well suited to the current IT trends in a pandemic-gripped world.
The variety of coding languages, assignments, and challenges are crafted perfectly to help understand the daily lessons and really pull the knowledge all together. Especially when you take the time to utilize all of the given resources and put in some additional research of your own.
The Pathway Program helped me craft the version of my professional self that I've never been more proud of. My resume reads the best it ever has, my LinkedIn profile has given me access to effectively promoting myself to contacts all around the world, I nailed every interview I have taken since graduation, and I'm on the verge of starting with a great company that I was connected with through this program. A superb accompaniment to the tech lessons! -
Dan Mess Verified via LinkedIn
one of the best decisions I've ever made
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My time at Tech Elevator was a very demanding but ultimately rewarding experience. We had three 4-week modules to introduce us to different aspects of web development, and then a two week final capstone group project to create an app with a team of 4 or 5. I left TE with a solid foundation to keep learning as I move through my new tech career and the confidence to know that I was capable of taking on big challenges and learning a lot of new material quickly. Moreover, TE's emphasis on paired programming and the final group project means that I got really valuable exposure to what it's like to develop software as a team, which was incredible practice for my future career.
One of the biggest reasons I chose TE was because of their Career Pathway program, which walked me through creating my own unique elevator pitch, making and maintaining a LinkedIn profile, making and refining a tech resume, and interview skills (intro interview, tech interview, and behavioral interview). What was especially valuable was having mock interviews of every type with feedback afterwards. The Pathway program also brought in several employers a week so that we could learn about their companies and begin to build an idea of what kind of company we wanted to work for and make a wishlist of prospective employers. Pathway culminated in two days of matchmaking interviews where we had 7-8 thirty minute interviews with employers looking to hire entry-level developers.
I was one of the fortunate people who actually got notice of an intent to offer before I graduated! I'd done a matchmaking interview with my #1 pick, and they then moved forward with me in the interview process in my last two weeks of camp. I got an email from them the Friday that I was slated to graduate, asking to meet with me Monday to present a job offer. I graduated, met with them the next Monday, and then accepted my new job that Tuesday. About a third of my class had offers before graduating, almost all of them from employers they'd met during matchmaking. And I know a lot more of us were in ongoing interviewing processes when we graduated.
I'd recommend TE to anyone who can truly dedicate themselves to the program for its 14 week time span. Like everything else in life, you get out of it what you put in. -
Dennis Paskel Verified via LinkedIn
Best Decision I Ever Made
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If you're reading this review there's a good chance you're considering a career change and weighing your options. What coding bootcamp is the best option for me? Should I make a career change? What if I'm unsuccessful? These questions and more are all perfectly valid. I know I asked myself these questions off and on for two years, before finally taking the leap of faith. My only regret was not making the decision to join Tech Elevator sooner.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
There's plenty of information about the curriculum online so I won't talk about that in detail. What I will say is that it will teach you enough of what you need to know to begin your career as a software developer in just 14 weeks, but you will only get out of it what you put into it.
Read your textbook, especially the section you will be covering in lecture, the day before. It will help you understand and digest the lecture material. Pair programming is important, and a great way to learn, however, if you quickly rely on other classmates to solve problems you are having, you will only rob yourself of a valuable learning experience. Part of becoming a great developer is being able to work as a team in a collaborative environment, but equally important is experimenting, asking yourself questions, reading documentation, and applying what you've learned in the daily homework assignments.
Be prepared to put in long hours. You're making an investment in yourself. Strive to complete all homework assignments on time, and earn yourself that "3." A 3 is the highest grade you can earn on an assignment. Occasionally, you will be given optional tasks that have no grade, complete them anyway. This is a great way to help solidify what you've learned. Generally, I dedicated the hours of 9am-8pm to learning (M-F), Saturday I'd spend the majority of the day finishing up a review assignment, reading for Monday's lecture, or working on a side project/tutorial.
Which brings me to my next point. Don't just make this a career, make it a hobby. Find a passion project and begin working on it. When it comes time to interview, employers appreciate if you have a project you can elaborate on.
Speak up in class and participate in lecture. Ask questions, have an open dialogue with your instructor, ask them to elaborate more if you need clarification. Your instructor is there to see you succeed, and no one will judge you. Chances are if you're thinking of the question, someone else in your class is wondering the same thing.
Don't compare yourself to others. People learn at different paces, and there might be an area you struggle in, but you will also find an area you excel in. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses.
Participate in Pathway events and do everything you're asked of by your Pathway Program Director. This is key to getting set up with a professional resume catered to your new career field, landing interviews, doing well on those interviews, and receiving job offers. After all, you're not just here to learn. You're here to begin a new career.
In these Pathway events, employers will come in to discuss their company, their culture, their mission, and offer advice. Pay attention to these employers as many of them will return for matchmaking, and you'll have a chance to select the ones you'd like to interview with. In my experience there were 10 employers who came out for matchmaking. I was able to choose 4, and met with 5.
Some people will receive job offers before graduation, some people will receive offers soon after graduation, and others within a couple months. Everyone is different and what's important is to not lose hope, you will hear this over and over again, but "trust the process." In my case I was sent a coding challenge from a matchmaking employer. From there I was scheduled a series of interviews on one day that ran from 8:30am - Noon, and received a job offer the following day.
I graduated from Tech Elevator on April 16 and had a conditional offer of employment the morning of April 21st for a full-time developer position. If you want to make a change in your life then take initiative and make a difference. If you're considering that career change, then deep down you already know what you want to do. It's okay to be afraid, but there's a reason why over 94% of tech elevator graduates find employment in the industry within 6 months (more like less than 3 months), the program works. All you have to do is put in the time and effort. -
Julia Plebanski Verified via LinkedIn
Easily the best decision I've ever made
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4 months ago I graduated from OSU with a degree in biology. I realized that I didn't want to pursue a career in research or medicine so I started exploring my options. I was instantly drawn to coding, and I started researching bootcamps in the Columbus area around November.
That's when a friend recommended Tech Elevator to me. He knew someone that went through the program and landed an amazing developer job, so I decided to check it out. I read countless reviews on Course Report about Tech Elevator and thought there was no way what people were saying is true, it can't be this awesome.
TRUST ME, IT IS THAT AWESOME.
When I was deciding whether to join the cohort in January I spoke to Maddy Miller, the admissions coordinator, and she was insanely kind and helpful while working with me throughout the admissions process. She connected me to numerous funding resources as well as scholarships which was very helpful. I also interviewed with and spoke to Vinny Sanfillipo, the director of the Columbus campus, who is a super upbeat, highly energetic, and positive guy.
Once I was enrolled in the cohort I had to quit my job and get started on the prework on the laptop Tech Elevator provides for you. For 2-3 weeks before the cohort start date, I worked on the prework and got to know some of my classmates.
Once the cohort actually started, I can't say enough good things. The structure of having lecture 9am-1pm Monday-Friday and working on exercises/reviewing material for the rest of the day was extremely helpful. My instructor, Steve Carmichael, kept class engaging, fun, and knew how to explain concepts to people with little to no programming experience. Steve as well as my TA, Kevin Toes, were always quick to help students with any issues they are having with homework or concepts from class at any time of the day.
Outside of class, the Pathway Program was extremely helpful. The biggest event they put on is around week 10-11 of the cohort called Matchmaking. Various employers come in to have first round interviews with students. I believe in my cohort the average number of interviews set up per student was 6,-7. Through matchmaking I was able to land multiple second and third rounds interviews, and ended up taking a job offer from one of the companies 3 weeks before the cohort even ended!
Overall, Tech Elevator was the best decision I have ever made. The people are so welcoming, encouraging, and positive, the content learned lined up well with industry demands, and the pathway program connected me to my first job in software development! I can't wait to see where my career in software development goes and I am forever grateful for Tech Elevator. -
Chris McAfee Verified via LinkedIn
Awesome program that prepared me to get a job in 13 weeks
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Awesome program that prepared me to get a job in 13 weeks
This program was 14 weeks long and while I wished we could've learned more in that time, I think Tech Elevator did a great job of teaching me the skills I needed to get started in a software developer role upon graduation.
Brief overview of coursework/curriculum:
Weeks 1-4 (module 1) we learned about object oriented programming using C# (or Java). Weeks 5-8 (module 2) we learned about SQL databases and API's. Weeks 9-12 (module 3) we learned html, css, javascript, and vue. Essentially, weeks 1-8 were backend focused and 9-12 were frontend focused.
At the end of each module, we had paired programming projects that utilized what we had been learning during that module. At the end of module 1, my partner and I built vending machine software, using what we had learned about object oriented programming. At the end of module 2, my partner and I built venmo-like software, utilizing our knowledge on object oriented programming, SQL databases, and API's/MVC software design pattern. At the end of module 3, weeks 13-14, we built a web application (as a group of 4 or 5 people) utilizing everything we had learned. My team built a web-app that would generate a random workout for a user, and would also allow trainers to add/edit/delete workouts in the database.
As far as technical skills go, Tech Elevator did a great job in helping me to build my programming knowledge, which made me feel confident when it came to doing technical interviews with potential employers.
This leads me into another aspect of the program which Tech Elevator calls the 'Pathway Program'. During the 14 weeks in the Tech Elevator program, I would have 1 or 2 (sometimes more) meetings with Tech Elevator's career coaches. They helped me to focus on building my elevator pitch, resume, and LinkedIn profile. We would consistently practice our elevator pitches, look over our resumes and LinkedIn profiles so that we felt comfortable speaking about our past and current experiences. We also had several behavioral and technical mock interviews, which really helped me to gage how interviews would go with potential employers. Additionally, because Tech Elevator has great relationships with local employers, we were able to do 30 minute interviews with several different (well known) employers as a part of Tech Elevator's Matchmaking Events (during weeks 12-14, I believe). I had interviews with seven different employers from the Matchmaking Events (I didn't have to seek out and apply anywhere, although Tech Elevator did recommend I do that on top of having these interviews). Luckily for me, I was offered a couple different developer positions during the Matchmaking Events and accepted a role as a Software Developer during my 13th week of the program!
Overall, I feel that my experience attending Tech Elevator's 14 week program was well worth my investment in time and money. And now in my first role as a software developer, while I am experiencing 'imposter syndrome' a bit, I'm confident I will do well because Tech Elevator taught me the foundational skills I need and I now know how to learn new programming languages and concepts. -
Olga Plaksina Verified via LinkedIn
Do you wanna develop an app?
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Reading alumni reviews of Tech Elevator was one of many reasons (along with my friend’s advice, curriculum, job placement rate, length of the program, virtual tour and particularly, diverse experience of instructors in the tech industry) I chose it over other IT bootcamps. So, it’s only fair if I contribute. Application process begins with an aptitude test, followed up by an interview and another aptitude test. The tests are based on logic and don’t require previous coding experience. Before classes begin Tech Elevator sends a few coding exercise recommendations such as start learning HTML, CSS, JavaScript focusing on concepts like if...then, loops, arrays. FreeCode and Codewars were listed as starting points. Cohort 7 (which is 8th) had 53-54 students (was debatable), 2 Java classes and 1 NET, 4 instructors and 2 academic fellows. Laptop with all needed installed software is provided. It’s important to prepare financially and mentally for 3 fascinating and challenging months. There are quite a few financing options listed on the TE website, I used Hebrew Free Loan Association loan for a portion of tuition. The whole program is divided into 3 Modules and at the end of each module it’s “capstone project” o’clock and it’s thrilling, because applying received knowledge into a real application is incredible and sometimes frustrating, too. In-between the capstones students are exposed to the new information every day about languages and frameworks such as Java, PostgreSQL, Spring Boot, JavaScript, Vu.js. I found ebook extremely helpful and logically structured. Along with coding skills education Tech Elevator introduces a Pathway program that assists students in writing resumes, creating LinkedIn profile, interview preparation, matchmaking. Students are encouraged to collaborate on homework assignments and develop teamwork skills. It was great to work with so many intelligent individuals on different projects. I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of networking events with other Tech Elevator campuses and representatives from various companies. My only complaint would be the fact that everything was remote, because TE campus looks so captivating, but I blame 2020. I felt prepared going to job interviews, I accepted a job offer from AHN and soon it will be one month in my new role. Among some languages and frameworks I never used before are Angular, SQL Server and PHP. There is definitely a learning curve, but adsorbing a new coding language is so much easier now. A few more words about me… I have 11 years of work experience, mostly in customer service, in various companies, but I’ve always wanted more from my career. I made attempts to program on BASIC when I was 10, but it didn’t go too far. The same year my favorite video game was American McGee’s Alice on Windows, so maybe that was the reason. That was it with my software skills for a long time. I was using R, R Studio and Tableau shortly when I was getting my MBA. I was planning to get a job in Data/Business Analytics area. When pandemic started, all internships I was hoping for were delayed or cancelled and meanwhile I decided to build up my tech skills. But after tons of research I couldn’t decide if I should learn SQL or Python or something else and how. Even though getting into bootcamp just to know how to work with databases might seem extreme, but I've always been a type of person who enjoys learning new things and starting with fundamental principles would make the most sense for me, because it resonates with my experience of learning a new language: understanding the grammar is the first step, practicing building sentences and memorizing new words is the second one. Needless to mention that my perception about programming completely changed. I made it my career, not an additional expertise. Problem-solving skills and desire to get things accomplished are able to get you very far. And last, but not least, I want to thank amazing, knowledgeable and caring instructors for continuous 12-weeks brain torture and along with campus director, Pathway director, admission coordinator and academic fellows for their time and incredible support through the program. I felt that each of them was interested in my success and was willing to help me grow. They are constantly encouraging students to reach out and ask questions and/or just vent about the intensity of the program. They are also willing to enhance learning experience, so they frequently ask your opinion about the process and are investing in improving it. They continue to support you after the graduation day for up to 6 months and are doing everything they can to help you land a job. Big shoutout to Tom, Tom, Beth, Walt, Jennifer, Ellen, Stephen, Marissa, Jacob, Eric! I wouldn’t do it without you!
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Colin Mahan Verified via LinkedIn
Leaving a full time job in 2020...
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There was nothing scarier than leaving a full time job with full benefits during Covid to try and change my career for the better. But it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. The course was intense yet very interesting. The instructors were always willing to take the time to help you out whether it be with homework, capstone projects, or even technical mock interviews. The pathway program was extremely helpful in getting an offer after graduating. The pathway directors were always there to help and lend an ear throughout the job search process. They definitely made it less stressful. I cannot thank everyone at Tech Elevator enough! -
Alex Wadner Verified via LinkedIn
Best decision I've ever made
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This is the real deal, folks! Attending this program was one of the best decisions I've ever made. It is run by people who genuinely care about helping you and will do everything they can to do so. TE has the curriculum down to a science. They know what you need to know and how to teach it. The lectures do a good job at covering concepts through ample explanation and examples. The homework is effective at drilling concepts so that they start to become automatic. Their textbook is a great resource and really helped me grasp the concept before learning it in class the next day. I had a phenomenal teacher who was incredibly knowledgable, patient, kind, and cultivated a great learning environment where asking questions was always encouraged. Additionally, there were two academic advisors that were always around if you needed help, more explanation, or anything else. There was never a shortage of support.
This program is really two-fold. The coding/technical education happens simultaneously with the professional skills education - the Pathway Program. This is one of the main reasons behind why I chose Tech Elevator. The Pathway Program prepared us for everything - how to make a killer resume and LinkedIn profile, how to talk to recruiters, how to interview, how to apply to jobs, and much more. It also hosts employer showcases, alumni events, and Q&A’s with professionals in the field. Then there's Matchmaking, a day towards the end of the program where you are set up with multiple back-to-back interviews with several companies looking to hire junior developers.
I honestly don't have much in the way of criticisms of the program. It met and exceeded by very high expectations. One of the things that strikes me the most about this organization as a whole is how invested they are into your success. I always felt incredibly supported. By the way, that doesn’t end after the bootcamp ends - they are there to help you for up to six months afterwards with mock technical interviews, advice, and job leads. I felt very prepared going into my job interviews because of everything I learned there. And it paid off for me - by the time I graduated, I had already accepted a job offer.
It bears mentioning that this is not an easy endeavor. It's one of the most challenging things I've ever done. You won’t have a life while you’re doing this. I barely saw my fiancee, let alone my friends or family. It’s intense, and I was working 60+ hours a week for 14 weeks. You will lean hard on your love for coding to keep you going. You will be so exhausted by the end, but you’ll learn so much about yourself and meet so many awesome people. Trust me when I say IT’S WORTH IT! -
Evan Carlisle Verified via LinkedIn
Genuinely Life-changing
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When I made the decision to attend Tech Elevator as part of a larger personal re-skilling/career-shifting initiative, I had no way of knowing what to expect. My experience exceeded my expectations and was absolutely the right move at the right time. The program is run by a group of energetic, smart, and down-to-earth people, and I would recommend to anyone with the means and the desire to make this change to go for it. You will come out of it with a whole lot of hands-on experience doing what real developers do every day. On top of that, you’ll have “evidence” (projects) that you can show to future potential employers. It’s a rollercoaster of a 14-weeks, and you will be *lovingly* shoved out of your comfort zone for most of it, but the reward is so worth it, and it's so much more than a paycheck. The confidence that I and so many of my classmates built over the 14 weeks was so evident, and the network that all TE grads inevitably become a part of is enormous.
I'd like to share some specifics about my experience and why I think it deserves 5-stars across the board. First, though, I think it's important to note that after deciding in September 2019 that I would attend Tech Elevator starting in September 2020, I started a somewhat rigorous self-study routine that would culminate in building a few projects using React (a front-end framework for making reactive web-apps) and hundreds of hours of study over the course of that year under my belt. Prior to that, I had also taken a year's worth of computer science classes in college. I'm pretty sure I came in with relatively more experience than most. That being said, I had many classmates with no prior experience coding who found jobs before I did!
Instructors:
It was apparent very quickly that the instructors were highly capable, empathetic, and dedicated to seeing their students succeed.
I was in the Java class, and Brian was my instructor. There was never a moment where I felt he was unprepared, and that really showed with the number of examples he would use to introduce new concepts. He explained things clearly, and for those who learn best by doing, he would accommodate them as they coded along with the lesson, pausing often and making sure everyone was on the same page. He and our co-teacher, Rachelle, made themselves available M-F 9-5 for questions or Zoom debugging sessions, and I had quite a few long and incredibly thoughtful responses hit my inbox well after-hours.
Instructors were great about providing emotional support as well, regardless of whether someone was that instructor’s student. There were events held that specifically addressed forming healthy habits with regards to stress, and from the get-go instructors made it a point to start the conversation about mental health.
Curriculum:
The curriculum was developed in-house and incredibly well-rounded. It was information-dense, clear, concise, and freely available (notes and recorded lectures) for review.
The curriculum was divided into four modules. Each module concludes with a capstone project, where you and teammate work together on a larger project that requires you to pull together everything you’ve learned in a particular module. Each capstone incorporates the previous modules’ concepts and technologies as well, so you’re not ever “done with one thing on to the next”.
Each day starts with a lecture and then the rest of the day is spent either working on the daily homework or seeking out projects of your own. They repeatedly emphasized pushing yourself to code A LOT during the 14-week program. Along with this was the constant reminder that instructors would always be available to try and help you figure out what sort of side project might be interesting to you. I’ve learned how to program each component I would need to build a web app, and most importantly, I’ve learned how to adapt to new working environments, where I might not be familiar with certain technologies.
Job Assistance:
Job assistance, provided by the "Pathway" program, was all-encompassing--it not only got you ready to apply to and interview for jobs, it was the bridge between you and the Tech Elevator business network .
Through Pathway, you are given plenty of instruction to get you ready to sit down in front of someone and confidently tell them you’re a software developer. The goals were laid out before the first day of the cohort, and there were multiple checkpoints with feedback provided to help us craft our outward-facing presence. By about halfway through the program, I had completely revamped my LinkedIn, and I had a brand-new resume. I had also been through multiple mock-interviews, both behavioral and technical. All of this was leading up to an event towards the end of the program, “Matchmaking”. We spent two days having sometimes back-to-back interviews with companies, and all of this was arranged through reaching out to the vast network that Tech Elevator has built and continues to build. Business of all sizes from our local community conducted dozens of interviews with all of us soon-to-be bootcamp grads. Multiple people ended up with the jobs they have today because of those interviews, including myself!
I think it's important to note here that most people did not end up with offers from Matchmaking, but we had been told over and over again that this would likely be the case, so nobody went into those interviews with the expectation that they would lead to a job directly. After matchmaking, you are ready to start applying to jobs, and with the support of the Pathway director(s) (which continues up to 6 months after graduation), the burden of finding work shifts more towards the student. That being said, I'm sure Ben and Vinny, my Pathway directors, would have sat down with me and made sure that I had everything I needed to competently search for and apply to jobs.
The last thing I'd like to mention is the final capstone. Classes were divided into groups and given two weeks to complete the most ambitious project of the program. At the end, each team had a fully functional web application, and on the final day of the program an entire graduation presentation was arranged for each team to showcase our work to friends, family, and the larger community. It was a really wonderful final tying together of both the Pathway program and the general TE curriculum.
I know I haven't shared any negative criticism, and that's because I never actually felt dissatisfied at any point during or after the program. I was definitely struck by how attentive and caring all of the instructors and staff were, and I am so grateful to have benefited from that. This was money well-spent, and I hope others can find the means to also make this step towards a future full of new opportunities! -
Deen Cameron Verified via GitHub
Java Full Stack Web Developer
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I chose to do the Java Full Stack course at Tech Elevator, I was in the remote cohort. Tech Elevator was one of the greatest decisions I've ever made. From start to finish, the staff was there for me every step of the way. I graduated February 12, 2021, and got my dream job offer exactly one week after graduation. I met the company through their matchmaking program. This process really works! If I had to start over again, I would STILL choose Tech Elevator. -
Seth Boyle Verified via LinkedIn
Musician to Dev in 6 months or less
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I attended Tech Elevator from May 2020-August 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio. It was the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and the cohort had recently switched to full remote learning instead of their usual in-person instruction. TE adapted quickly and was able to provide a sufficient educational experience. I had spent 4-6 months prior working on CodeAcademy courses and working through the Harvard CS50 Intro to Comp Sci course (highly recommend) which helped introduce me to some of the fundamentals of coding and computer science.
Tech Elevator moves very quickly but with help from my main instructor, the cohort tutor and other students I felt I was able to keep up with the course work and learn A LOT in 14 weeks. There are 3 main modules that each last about 4 weeks. You first learn the basics of data structures and OOP in either Java or C#. The next 4 weeks you learn about databases and APIs and how to integrate them in your previously chosen language. Finally, the last 4 weeks is focused on Javascript and a modern JS framework (Vue.js is what I learned). At the end of each module you do a capstone project that you will eventually upload to your public GitHub that serves as your portfolio as you enter the job market. The final two weeks of the program is a bigger project where you simulate a real working experience with project requirements, daily stand-ups, a product manager and a live debut of your application.
Throughout the technical training you also go through the "Pathway" program. This is dedicated to sharpening your resume, LinkedIn and interviewing skills. The program also has a two week long period of "Matchmaking" where they let students sign up for real interviews with employer partners. I didn't end up getting a job from any of my matchmaking interviews since a lot of the companies were on a hiring freeze due to the pandemic but I still made valuable connections and was able to practice my behavioral and technical interviewing skills.
In conclusion, I went from working at a coffee shop part time and gigging as a freelance performing musician with an incomplete Bachelors degree in music, to landing my first job as a Software Developer in about 4-5 months during an unprecedented global pandemic. It was a lot of hard work but I felt supported throughout the whole process. Using modern tools and technologies prepared me for the job market and I was able to land a Junior Software Developer role within a week of completing the program. I actually felt very prepared for my first job which uses almost the same exact tech stack as the Tech Elevator curriculum.
I'm now 6 months into my first role, making twice as much money as I was before Tech Elevator and learning a ton everyday. I am super excited to grow my career and keep progressing as a developer. I'll admit I was skeptical of bootcamps in general and always thought you needed a college degree to work in software, but the demand is high and companies need developers. Whether you're completely self-taught, have some computer science experience or none at all, a bootcamp like Tech Elevator is a quick and affordable way to get industry relevant skills and real professional connections to kickstart your career in tech. It's a huge commitment to full time learning and countless hours of technical practice and homework for 4 months (basically impossible to hold down a job during the bootcamp, so savings and/or a loan need to be in place), but well worth it in my opinion.
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Micah Kaufman Wright Verified via LinkedIn
The best timing possible
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I don't think I could have timed this better if I planned it. I quit my restaurant job in the summer of 2019, took out a loan, and became a full time student at Tech Elevator in the fall. I learned Java and the basics of JavaScript, Vue.js, PostgreSQL, HTML/CSS, REST, etc. The beauty of this "bootcamp" was that it wasn't just teaching us coding, it was teaching us how developers work together both in theory (TDD, AGILE, etc.) and in tools (we learned a lot of GIT). And a good chunk of each day was spent learning how to interview well, how to pitch ourselves to recruiters and employers, how to build a LinkedIn presence and a resume. My teacher was knowledgeable and funny, engaging in a way that I really appreciated. We would spend the mornings learning, and the afternoons working on homework and projects. The teachers were always available to help us think through problems. The Pathway program helped us prepare for interviews and it helped us go through our first interviews right there, onsite. Matchmaking day was like a speed-dating-esque version of interviews, with quick 15 minute interviews at a building filled with company reps who were looking for new talent and knew that Tech Elevator produced grads well grounded in the basics of programming and well-equipped to continue learning.I would not have the job I have today, had I not had the Pathway Directors there to help me. I was asked to come in for a follow up interview with one of the companies I spoke with at Matchmaking, and was offered a job there. But there were a couple hiccups along the way that I doubt I would have handled on my own.I was hired in December of 2019, before I'd even graduated. My first day of work was February 10th, 2020. I was able to work in the office for a month before we were all sent to work from home. I am so grateful that I chose to change my career when I did, and that I now have a job with a future I can imagine, that I have the luxury of performing from home.My manager has been consistently impressed with my abilities, but also with my ability to reach out for help when I need it, and to articulate my ideas clearly to others. I think that not only did Tech Elevator help me learn to code, it helped me get back into the habit of constantly learning. -
Robert Gongaware Verified via LinkedIn
Fantastic Experience!
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I cannot recommend Tech Elevator enough to anyone interested in elevating their career and personal growth. In less than half a year, I went from unemployed, to learning a whole new skill set and landing a dream job within that field. I am using the skills that I learned at Tech Elevator to exceed expectations at my new job and could not be more proud of myself. The staff at Tech Elevator care intensely and invest in your success. From curriculum, to guidance, and eventual job placement, every avenue is meticulously structured to benefit YOU. This whole process was life changing; even being in my mid-thirties, I was confident in what I had learned would make me an attractive hiring candidate, and that paid off immensely. -
Seth Verified via LinkedIn
Exactly As Advertised
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I completed the Tech Elevator Spring 2020 Java cohort at the Philadelphia campus. Now, after 6+ months in my new role as a software developer, I can reflect on my experience at TE and how it helped prepare me for this career. TE was the right choice for me for the following reasons:- Technically rigorous. Software developer bootcamps are a major commitment of time and money and I wanted my experience to be technically challenging, giving me the best "bang for the buck." I came to TE with a willingness to put in the work and felt challenged each and every day.
- Instructor quality - TE instructors come from the industry and have extensive experience. In addition to their technical knowledge, they truly know how to teach programming. They met each student at their level and were an invaluable resource for industry/career advice.
- Pathways Program - TE's robust career program connected me with employers throughout the bootcamp. Caitie and the TE team are hyper-focused on equipping students with the resources and connections for career advancement.
The tech elevator program was exactly as advertised. One of the most important reasons why I chose TE was their publication of career statistics. Rather than advertising one-off success stories, they deliver a program that allows hard-working individuals to successfully pivot into a software development field. I saw it with my own journey, as well as in my classmates’. The results speak for themselves! -
Jeremiah Williams Verified via LinkedIn
100% Would Recommend
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I came into Tech Elevator with one semester of coding experience my freshman year of college, however no experience is needed. I know it can be hard to listen to strangers and trust reviews when making a big life decision. With that in mind I’m writing this with the readers thoughts in mind or with my thoughts almost 1 year ago. I was 19 years old at the time and had no idea what this bootcamp was like, I had no expectations and no information on what would be taught. All of the technology jargon and lingo on the internet is confusing and daunting when researching what Software Development is like. Fortunately no matter what your age, Tech Elevator is going to make sure you are ready for the workforce. I went to the Pittsburgh campus (although it was remote/online) and my experience was phenomenal. Not only do you have a bunch of like-minded individuals willing to offer their help, the instructors go above and beyond. They are in the right place as they all have this knack for making the material so understandable and really put in extra effort when someone doesn’t understand. On top of their teaching abilities, their knowledge of the material is extremely vast. The pathway program also works extremely hard to make sure everyone succeeds, on a personal level, and in job readiness. They will set up countless events that will help you acclimate to this new setting and prepare you to crush the interviews you’ll get at the end of the cohort. They are all friendly people that are more than willing to devote their time for your success. Overall, Tech Elevator is going to work with you and mold you into a Junior Developer no matter what your background and that can seem hard to fathom but I know so many of my (now junior developer) friends that thought the same thing. If you really want a change in your life, specifically in technology/software. This is for you. -
Andrew Verified via LinkedIn
Total Game Changer
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Let me start by saying Tech Elevator was more than I could have hoped to get out of a bootcamp. Their environment, staff, curriculum, and overall structure was phenomenal. I come from a service industry background and have worn many different hats throughout the years including bartender, bar manager, and even small business owner, but I have always dreamed of a career in the technology field. I had heard about bootcamps but never had the push to switch careers until COVID hit and I needed to find a more resilient path. After months of due diligence weighing various program options and even considered teaching myself, I finally decided TE Columbus campus was the path for me. That decision was absolutely life changing and one that will go down as one of the best decisions I have ever made. I found lifelong friends and learned skills that I will never forget.
The staff at Tech Elevator is an inspiring and remarkable group of people. They have unparalleled abilities to transform students with limited development backgrounds into industry-ready software engineers. The curriculum is fast and vast, allowing you to get the full stack experience in a short amount of time. The instructors go above and beyond to ensure the knowledge you acquire sticks with you and is applicable to the current job market. I remember many times that I reached out to the instructors outside of office hours or on the weekends to ask questions or clarify a lesson. They were accessible and didn’t hesitate to ensure I had the information I needed to be successful. The career services “pathway program” is remarkable at developing soft skills, resumes, and general industry knowledge into sharpened tools. As someone who thought they wouldn't gain a lot from that kind of insight, I was glad to be proven wrong and they turned my unique skills into an impressive toolkit. The support staff holds everything together behind the scenes and works diligently to prepare students to succeed. If you have the time, drive, and “why” to devote yourself to a life-altering career change in software development then this is THE place for you. I would have given more stars if it was possible.
The curriculum is on point with the current job market. The instructors are diligent and as hungry as you are to help you succeed. The pathway program, career services, will polish you up and take you to where you want to be. The support staff is there to build up your chances to succeed. Overall, the staff is what sets Tech Elevator apart and will give it all they have as long as you're willing to do the same.
Be warned, this is called a BOOTCAMP for a reason and this decision should not be taken lightly. It was one of the hardest journeys I’ve ever set out on, but also the most rewarding. I don’t know how some of my classmates completed this program while managing part-time jobs and taking care of small children. I devoted my full schedule to TE and spent at least 60+ hours a week on class assignments, reading or polishing my skills. Taking yourself out of your comfort zone is where you learn the most and you get out of this program what you put into it. I highly suggest not heading into this program thinking you can skate by.
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Elaina Rusetsky Verified via LinkedIn
One of the Best Experiences of My Life
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I came to Tech Elevator because it was my top choice after reviewing dozens of coding boot camps. I was struck by their Pathway Program, which equips students with the necessary skills to find employment after the cohort ends. I am pleased to say I was not disappointed in the slightest. In addition to coding skills, we learned how to prepare resumes, optimize LinkedIn, and interview both technically and behaviorally. Towards the end of the program, students got to do employee "matchmaking," where we interviewed with several hiring employers from companies like PNC and Chase.
I feel like Tech Elevator cultivates a supportive learning environment where it is okay to be wrong and make mistakes. The curriculum was tough, but someone was always available to help, even after normal business hours (and they weren't required to!). Staff were understanding and accommodating towards learning disabilities and stress.
In fourteen weeks, I doubled my salary and emerged with new confidence and friendships. Tech Elevator was an amazing experience and I recommend it wholeheartedly to anyone willing to put in the effort. -
Jonathan George Verified via LinkedIn
Amazing experience that really delivers
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I'm a graduate from Tech Elevator Philadelphia Java Cohort 2 happily writing this review on the first day of my new Software Developer Associate role.FFromrom
From start to finish Tech Elevator were incredible and welcoming. I was dubious about distance learning at first due to the pandemic but TE really managed to foster a sense of community and helped adapt to your learning style. You can go into this course with zero knowledge and come out the other end understanding enough to land a job, however it will take continued learning (for years to come) and persistence to really understand any topic you touch upon.
The pathway program was by far the most appealing thing to me and the support in job searching and interviewing was crucial in me landing my current role. Caitie who was the program director did an amazing job and tirelessly answered questions and kept on top of everyone's progress.
Everyone I interacted with did an amazing job from Amber and Caitie to the instructors Rich, Kevin, Margaret and Josh. There's always someone willing to help you learn.
The only negatives were web dev section is very quick, no in person graduation and not meeting the friends I made in my cohort but these were mainly covid or time related.
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Jesse Heller Verified via LinkedIn
Can change your life if you put the effort in
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Background
Prior to enrolling at Tech Elevator I worked primarily in the service industry; I have a BBA in Finance from Temple University, though I never worked in the field professionally. After experience severe burnout as a bartender, I started weighing my options as to what my next move would be. I completed some online programming tutorials around that time, and found myself rather enjoying the process. That went on for awhile before it occurred to me that this was something I could see myself doing professionally. I initially considered going back to school for a second Bachelor's degree, though I didn't think I could tolerate another 2-4 years in the industry before making a change. As such, I felt a boot camp would be a good 'meet in the middle' option.
At the time, there weren't a lot of options for boot camps in Philly. While doing some background research on boot camps in general, I found some praise on Reddit for the Tech Elevator program from an individual that had attended one of their Ohio campuses. I started checking out the TE program and, wouldn't you know, they were opening a campus in Philadelphia that month! I honestly kind of figured it was kismet, and I don't believe in such things, but I digress.
After that I started vetting the program as much as possible, trying to find anything negative about TE from someone who had attended. It was, after all, a not insignificant amount of money for the program, and I wanted to be sure I was making the right decision. My search turned up nothing substantive, so I decided to take the plunge and apply.
Overall
I cannot say enough good things about Tech Elevator. This program can and will enable you to make a career change if you are willing to put the work in. I'm very confident in saying you will get as much out of it as you put in. There's no two ways about it: it's tough. It's intense. But if you grind it out you'll amaze yourself with how much you've accomplished by the end.
The cohort I was a part of started in May 2020. We started off virtually, though we were tentatively supposed to go back in person at some point during the program. Obviously, that never came to fruition. At the start I was admittedly pretty disappointed about the prospect of doing everything online, though in hindsight it actually turned out to be a huge positive, as my Philly cohort was combined with the Detroit cohort starting at the same time. I was pretty indifferent about this initially, though having the opportunity to collaborate with the people in Detroit ended up being one of my favorite parts of the whole experience.
Instructors
Both of the instructors for my cohort were great. During each module, one instructor would lead the daily lecture, with the other serving in an assistant / supplemental role. They switched roles -- so that the primary would be the assistant, and vice versa -- between each module. The instructors made themselves readily available throughout -- always beyond just providing lectures -- which was huge, especially in the early days. There was a very palpable sense that the instructors wanted to see us succeed (and weren't just 'doing a job'), which I found encouraging. One instructor did outshine the other, though both were extremely capable.
Curriculum
The program was split up into four modules:
- Core Java
- Relational Databases
- RESTful APIs
- Front End (HTML / CSS / JS / Vue.js)
A typical day would consist of 2.5 - 3 hours of lecture in the morning, and then an assignment for the evening. This structure works well because learning-by-doing is very much the best (I'd argue only) way to learn programming. Each module would conclude with a capstone project that encapsulated everything we had learned up to that point, including what was covered in the prior modules. This was effective in building a strong foundation as we progressed.
The first module is, in my opinion, the toughest. Not because it is the most complex from a technical standpoint, but because if you're coming in with no (or very little) experience programming, it's A LOT to learn upfront. One of the instructors likened it to 'drinking out of a fire hose', which I think is an apt metaphor. I was able to lessen some of the anguish of the early days due to my self-study prior to enrollment; while not strictly necessary, or even expected, I do think it helped me start off on the right foot.
My only gripe with the curriculum was the final module. We were taught Vue.js, the least in demand of the three most popular JS frameworks based on what I saw while looking for jobs. Overall, a relatively minor complaint as there's a degree of overlap with all three, and presumably if you knew Vue it wouldn't be too difficult to pick up one of the other two if a job required it.
Overall, the material that's covered in the first three modules comprises 80-90% of what's needed for my job on a day-to-day basis, so these skills are absolutely relevant and in demand.
Job Assistance
The Pathway Program is really what sets Tech Elevator apart from other boot camps. When I was applying I felt Pathway was a nice 'cherry on top', but didn't think much of it. Looking back, the Pathway program was at the very least equally as important as the technical skills I acquired in contributing to my ability to get a job. Getting experience with mock behavioral / technical interviews prior to real interviews, panels with actual working professionals, employer showcases with companies that are hiring, match making, tracking down job leads (including after graduating) .. I could go on. All of these things were invaluable. Less tangibly, the Pathway director for my cohort was a tremendous cheerleader, and always there to offer a word of encouragement when needed; it was evident there was a very real desire to see everyone in the cohort succeed.
Closing Thoughts
If you're sure learning software development is what you want to do, I cannot recommend Tech Elevator enough. It is without a doubt a grueling experience, but if you don't give up on yourself, the staff won't give up on you. That's as much as you could ask for. -
Erum Khan Verified via LinkedIn
Software Developer Associate
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I have been a stay at home mom for the last decade. For quite some time, I had wanted to restart my career but didn’t know how to go about it. Tired of not getting anywhere with my attempts, and inspired by the reviews of TE alumni, I decided to take the plunge and enrolled at TE.
In a little more than 3 weeks since graduation, I have received 2 job offers, negotiated a raise in salary (again with guidance from TE), and have come to know many people I can reach out to in the future. I have also gained confidence in my strengths, and the technical knowledge that I have amassed at TE.
Now a bit about the process that brought about this transformation for me :)
First, the program was fully remote for my cohort. I was uncertain about how effective and rigorous remote learning could be, but from the comfort of my home, I felt like I was fully engaged in all the activities at TE. I got to work closely with people, and was amazed by how much could be accomplished virtually - we attended classes, employer showcases, panel discussions, presentations, worked in teams for our capstones and paired assignments, participated in whiteboard sessions, interviewed with companies, etc.
Second, the technical curriculum is very well organized, and is updated regularly. During technical interviews, I came to learn how relevant the curriculum at TE is to current industry needs. My instructor was clearly an expert in the subject matter covered, and moreover, would often give tips about standard practices in the tech industry, stress upon which material was important to know for interviews, etc. Over the course of the 14 weeks, I came to deeply appreciate his availability, concern and respect for each of his students, and his knowledgeable answers to (and endless patience for) my many questions. I interacted in some form or another with each of the Pittsburgh TE staff, and found every one of them to be informed, helpful, and clearly invested in their students’ success.
Third, the learning process at TE involves much more than technical knowledge. We created resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and “elevator pitches”, and learnt how to make contacts and apply for jobs. We also practiced interviewing for HR, behavioral, and technical interviews. Each one of us, as we are receiving offers, get guidance through ensuing negotiations.
Fourth, TE has a relationship with many local tech companies, and this gives its students a distinct advantage over other candidates for jobs available with these companies. Many of these companies have hired TE graduates, been happy with their hires, and now return regularly for more hires. Closer to the end of the cohort, TE organizes an event called “Matchmaking”, where students interview with companies that are actively recruiting for jobs. This is an invaluable event for the students and leads to job offers for many of them.
Fifth, students (even remote ones) get to work with others on a regular basis. Paired assignments were given every week, and I got to work with a team for each of the 3 capstones. The last of these was two weeks long, and we followed the Agile methodology (which is practiced by many companies), complete with a product manager and scrum master, daily standups, demos, post demo discussions, and a final presentation to everyone at TE.
If all of this sounds a bit much for 14 weeks, it’s because it is :) However, it is entirely doable if one treats TE like a full time job, works hard, and trusts the process. Attending TE was a truly unique and wonderful experience for me… I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone interested in revamping/ starting out their career in tech! -
Jeff Verified via LinkedIn
From Teacher to Software Developer
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After being a teacher for the past six years I decided to quit my job in July. Soon after I received my acceptance from Tech Elevator and began their Java program in September with virtually zero coding experience. Over the next 14 weeks I would be challenged unlike ever before but I would also achieve a sense of accomplishment unlike ever before. Tech Elevator instructors and pathway directors work tirelessly to ensure your success. I could not imagine trying to learn how to code on my own let alone successfully find a job. Working(virtually) alongside other students with similar goals was incredibly helpful. At Tech Elevator you gain access to recruiters, employers, and alumni for employer showcases, mock interviews and matchmaking. The fact that Tech Elevator is able to successfully run their program virtually like it was created to be virtual just goes to show how hard everyone works to make this program a success. I graduated from TE on December 18 and accepted my first position as a software developer this week! I will forever be grateful to Tech Elevator for making my transition from education to technology so incredibly successful! -
Esaiyas Verified via LinkedIn
Software Developer Associate
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I would pick Tech Elevator from any boot-camp around Columbus due to its curriculum, knowledge of the instructors, networking, matchmaking and everyone always ready to help with no time limits. The curriculum helps anyone with no background in IT to someone who wants to improve their coding skills.
If you are dedicated and willing to work hard, then this is the right place which can change your life. -
Jessica Gib Verified via LinkedIn
Java Web Development Bootcamp
I really appreciated how well my instructors and pathway directors prepared me for interviews. I also appreciated how knowledgeable the instructors were in the subject matter. My instructor had a knack for explaining things that made me better able to retain the information. Tech Elevator was a worthy educational experience. -
Vinny Bucci Verified via LinkedIn
Amazing Decision
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After coming from a few different careers the idea of starting a coding bootcamp seemed ridiculous to me. Being able to have a new career after 3 months seemed like the biggest scam to me but after meeting and talking with the faculty at Tech Elevator I quickly realized this was the furthest thing from a scam. Everyone that is employed there is thinking of your best interests and the ultimate goal of getting a job. There is not enough words to express how amazing everyone who works here is. They care about you as a student and as a person and want to help you in every way. The program is very difficult and they know this and take it into consideration every step of the way. They were always available for assistance if you needed help with something and that was easily the best part about the program. If you had a question someone was there to help you. Having a pathway program that helps you on your soft skills and interviewing was amazing. Coming from an undergrad degree and a masters program where no one takes your careers into consideration this was a fantastic change of pace. I felt prepared when applying to jobs and interviewing. The technical aspect was amazing as well. With incredible instructors who take their time and help you learn the material. I feel confident going into my new career as a junior developer. It was a fantastic experience that I would recommend to anyone who is considering a career change. You could not be in better hands than the people who work at Tech Elevator. -
Jared Bussell Verified via LinkedIn
Great bootcamp that helps you get a job
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The biggest part that separates this bootcamp for others is the fact that they help you get a job. On top of all your lessons they also provide sessions after your class to help you prepare for getting a job and also set up various interviews in order to help you have a job lined up after the class ends. Even if you don't have a job lined up at the end, they will continue to help you after you graduate so you're not just leaving desolate. Most bootcamps can teach you how to code but very few can teach you how to land a job. -
Ben Pilcher Verified via LinkedIn
The best choice I've ever made for my career!
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I can't say enough good things about Tech Elevator! I'm a fairly risk-averse person, so quitting my previous job and taking a chance on a full-time bootcamp was a huge decision. I had heard good things about Tech Elevator from previous students, and everything they said turned out to be accurate. Tech Elevator provided the instruction and support I needed to go from someone with no technical background to a full-stack developer in just 14 weeks. (NOTE: The pace of learning and the workload are not for the faint of heart, but Tech Elevator was upfront about this from the beginning. If you are willing to work hard and trust the process, you'll be successful.)
One thing that sets this bootcamp apart from others is the Pathway career preparation program. I had no idea how to prepare for a career in tech, but the Pathway team guided me and, most importantly, provided direct access to employers looking to hire students like me. I officially graduate tomorrow and, thanks to Tech Elevator's employer matchmaking process, I have already accepted an amazing position as a full-time software developer at a major company in my area.
Finally, the people at Tech Elevator are its strongest asset. Throughout the 14-week program, all of the instructors and staff provided much-needed encouragement, ample academic support, and genuine enthusiasm and investment in our success as students. I recommend this program to anyone looking to "elevate" their career! -
Liza Moran Verified via GitHub
Best investment I’ve ever made in myself
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I was a Java student in pittsburgh’s first fully remote cohort, and it was the best choice I’ve ever made. I didn’t know much (anything) about coding before I started, but I knew I needed to make a career switch. In 14 weeks I went from knowing nothing to graduating with a job offer as a software developer. I didn’t know everything leaving, but I left with a solid framework to build upon and the confidence that I could learn what else I needed to on the job. And so far I have, and I’m so glad I made the switch and so glad I chose tech elevator. They are not just there to collect your tuition and push you out the door. They want to help you get a job. And unlike other boot camps they actually set up interviews with local hiring partners, which is how the majority of my cohort got hired. Curriculum aside, the instructors, pathway director, and staff are just good, caring, wonderful people who are genuinely dedicated to getting you a job and seeing you succeed. I cannot say enough positive things. Choose tech elevator. You won’t regret it. -
Brad McCord Verified via LinkedIn
.NET Student
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I came into this with 0 coding experience, and can say that this program far and away exceeded my expectations. I never felt out of place in anything that we went over and loved how willing the instructors are to go out of their way to assist students.
I will say that if you are coming into this with a coding background, you may not learn much in the beginning. However, if you were self taught, the .NET instructors do a great job to ensure you understand good code format and writing techniques to make your code easily readable and fixable. They teach test driven development in the beginning and proper formatting to get you on a similar playing field to those who have been coding for years.
While this is a coding camp emphasized on student success, I must mention that it is still up to you to take full advantage of what is being taught. Self motivation is still key here, and knowing when to reach out for help is an important character trait to be successful in this program.
Onto the Pathway program. This entire part of Tech Elevator is dedicated to getting you job ready, and is separate from the coding instruction. They provide plenty of opportunities to meet other companies, attend coding events in the area and online, and to destress with others in the camp. However, some of the required presentations, in my opinion, were a bit unnecessary. I also felt students would ask very strong questions regarding things like the interview experience and how to present yourself, and I do not feel the answers to these types of questions were very strong. That being said, your resume and LinkedIn will look incredible by the end of the program if you take their advice. This is and the matchmaking events more than makeup for any downfalls I have with the Pathway program as a whole.
TL:DR
The instructors are very passionate and want to see you succeed. They start from the ground up and do a great job breaking down basic topics without wasting time on unnecessary information. Classes are highly interactive and questions are addressed seriously and immediately to the best of the instructors knowledge's. The Pathway program is hit or miss, but you can be sure you will leave this program having met plenty of potential companies and with a killer resume and professional presence on LinkedIn.
Overall Schedule
The first 3/4 of the program is highly focused on teaching you to code, while the last 1/4 is mostly focused on getting you ready for the job market. -
Jordan Verified via LinkedIn
How learning a trade should be
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I'm coming up on graduation in 6 days, and I can emphatically say this was a great decision. Tech Elevator has a solid curriculum, taught by exceptional teachers, and is run by a passionate staff. They all want you to succeed and are willing to put in the work if you are. To be clear: it was a LOT of work and is not for everyone. But if you are determined, willing to put in lots of effort, and eager to learn, this is the bootcamp for you. They will give you technical skills AND networking skills. I personally was very weak on the networking/interviewing side of things and chose TE partially because they build that into the curriculum. Why that isn't the standard way of teaching in every field is beyond me...
I give 5 stars in each category unreservedly. If you can make it through a bootcamp and want to start a career in software development, pick Tech Elevator. It will give you all the tools you need to succeed. -
Claire Kirby Verified via LinkedIn
This bootcamp worked for me
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This bootcamp worked for me. And by 'worked' I mean I am now working as a software engineer, about to have my 90 day review at a company and job that I love and it has only been 7 months since I started the program. Only 3 months after graduating, I am earning over double any of my previous salaries. Prior to starting Tech Elevator, I had dabbled in HTML and CSS and tried to teach myself more but it never worked. However, going in Tech Elevator does not require you to have any coding experience. They start from the ground up and build the fundamentals you need to think like and become a developer. Starting with either Java or C#, you learn the core concepts of object oriented programing and then move on to databases, APIs and end with some experience in front end technologies. Alongside the tech portion is the 'Pathway Program'. It is this side of TE (along with their excellent graduation and job placement rates) that originally drew me to this bootcamp. They have dedicated staff who help you craft your new tech forward resume, update your LinkedIn, and network with TE's hiring partners in your area. This help is INVAULABLE. You could be an amazing self taught programmer, but if you don’t know how to present yourself to possible employers you wont get very far. Added to this the instructors are incredible. They are impressively knowledgeable, passionate, and have real industry experience. One of my teachers told us that he wouldn't let us graduate if he could see himself hiring us to his own development team. So while it could just be a 'factory' where they push you through like some bootcamps, they are truly dedicated to the end result of you being an employable and competent programmer. But ultimately Tech Elevator is more than the sum of its parts. It becomes a community to help you through an intense program and into your career beyond. I built a network of peers and mentors that I know I can count on moving forward. My passion for this program makes me want to stay involved and mentor current students in turn and that is what makes Tech Elevator special. All sentiment aside, if you are able to dedicate yourself full time to a 14 week intensive bootcamp, Tech Elevator can turn you into a developer and help you get that job. Their numbers speak for themselves. -
Sharon Rosal Verified via LinkedIn
Tech Elevator is invested in your success.
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Coming from a healthcare background with no coding experience and also a stay-at-home parent, the 14-week boot camp at Tech Elevator was one of the hardest things I have ever done. I couldn’t have made it through without the help of my classmates, instructors, and our pathway director. Everyone in my class was going through the same experience as I was and the TE staff is always there to help.If you plan to do this make sure you are 100% committed to investing 14 weeks to learning. Tech Elevator will prepare you for a career in Tech in two ways, teach you everything you need to know to start out as a Junior Full Stack Developer and the Pathway Program will teach you how to land a job. The pathway program includes resume writing, creating a LinkedIn profile, mock behavioral and technical interviews with instructors and recruiters, and Match-Making events with reputable companies.The support from the staff continues on even after you graduate through interview preparation, coding tutorials, reaching out to recruiters, out-of-state jobs, and a lot more. I met with our pathway director and instructors for interview practice every week until I was able to get a job. I am very grateful to the TE staff for their patience, encouragement, and support. -
Eli Collinson Verified via LinkedIn
Maybe the best decision I've Ever Made
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I had heard about this program through a friend who was a huge advocate for them. I took the leap and could not be more ecstatic with the result. I have a background in education, and I was amazed by the caliber, knowledge, patience, and genuine warmth my instructors exuded. I have never had a better educational experience than this program. The support on the job hunt is also tremendous, the pathway directors always seemed genuinely invested in my personal hunt, and I felt like they were extremely available for help before and after the program. I have been pushing my friends to look at it, it was an incredible experience, even fully remote. In the end the job I found more than tripled the salary of my last job, it really probably is the best decision I've ever made.
