Tiago Finotti
A TechLeap Case Study
From CrossFit to Code: How Tiago Transformed his Career
”Aderson helped me with so many things. The project I worked with was what most employers were looking for. The guidance from project to career development. And the community we have built of like-minded people going through the same journey. I wouldn't have gotten my job opportunity if it wasn't for Aderson’s direction.”
Background
Before transitioning into software development, Tiago was a CrossFit Coach. Tiago graduated in April 2020 during the challenging times of the pandemic. Like many new graduates, he faced uncertainty about his future as a software developer. He was determined to improve his resume, LinkedIn profile, and coding skills, but he often felt lost without clear guidance on what was most important for landing his first job.
Challenges
Before joining TechLeap, Tiago struggled with several key issues:
Lack of professional experience in collaborative software development.
Difficulty in coordinating efforts within a team.
Uncertainty about the most beneficial activities to focus on for his job search.
Overwhelmed by the process of contributing to open source projects and participating in hackathons.
Solution
Tiago started working with TechLeap, which stood out to him for several reasons:
Project-Based Learning:
It offered real-world projects using technologies relevant to current job markets, providing hands-on experience that simulated a professional environment.
Mentorship:
Comprehensive mentoring from experienced professionals helped Tiago understand the practical applications of his coding skills and provided valuable career advice.
Career Presentations:
Many sessions shared insights on software development careers, recruiting, LinkedIn optimization, and more.
Experience
Upon joining TechLeap, Tiago quickly immersed himself in a dynamic learning environment:
He worked on a project involving Azure Functions and DevOps, gaining exposure to real-world software development practices.
Collaborated with a diverse team of developers, enhancing his teamwork and communication skills.
Benefited from mentoring sessions that offered guidance on both technical and career development aspects.
Results
Tiago’s participation led to significant achievements:
Job Acquisition:
Through a connection made during his time on TechLeap, Tiago secured a job offer from a company connected to TechLeap. He started working as a software developer within two weeks.Skill Development:
TechLeap helped Tiago develop a strong sense of responsibility and urgency, crucial traits for professional success. He learned how to manage his time effectively and deliver work on a timely manner.Career Growth:
Tiago expressed immense gratitude to the team at TechLeap, acknowledging that the combination of practical project experience, mentoring, and networking opportunities were decisive in jumpstarting his career.
Testimonials
Tiago highlighted several key aspects to the help he got at TechLeap:
The project experience provided practical skills and teamwork opportunities.
The mentoring was hands-on and available even outside scheduled sessions, which was a pleasant surprise.
The diverse members allowed for peer learning and support, enhancing the overall experience.
Recommendations
For anyone considering, Tiago emphasized its value:
Bridging the Gap:
It effectively bridges the gap between graduation and securing a job, especially in the challenging job market exacerbated by the pandemic.Comprehensive Support:
The blend of project work, mentoring, and career guidance provides a holistic approach to professional development.
Conclusion
Tiago’s transformation from a CrossFit coach uncertain about his future in tech to a confident and employed software developer is a powerful example of the impact of targeted support and hands-on experience. Initially overwhelmed and unsure where to focus his efforts,
Tiago’s journey with TechLeap provided him with the structured guidance, practical projects, and mentorship he needed to build confidence and sharpen his skills. This comprehensive approach not only helped him secure a job quickly but also equipped him with the mindset and tools to thrive in his new career. Tiago's story underscores how the right support can turn anxiety into achievement, paving the way for a successful transition into the tech industry.