Sam

Building a career game plan

Growing up, Sam had two career goals: be drafted into the NBA, or become a software developer. While ball is still a passion, he chose to pursue a technology career. He was enthralled by his ability to manipulate code in a free game builder to unlock paid/premium features. Working a series of retail and service industry jobs to pay for college, and picking up valuable communications skills along the way, Sam was on a path to realizing his goal. Then COVID happened.

“I just want the experience”

Sam took a leave from college during the pandemic and wasn’t sure about returning to school and racking up more debt. Even if he graduated with a degree, he wouldn’t have the real-world experience employers required. He applied for the Catalyte software development apprenticeship program because he saw it as his best chance to “earn while you learn” and gain experience doing what he cared about: being a software developer.

Learning and applying the Microsoft tech stack

With his computer science background, Sam accelerated through the Catalyte program, quickly picking up technologies like .NET. The greater challenge came when he was placed on his first client. He had just weeks to complete multiple Microsoft certifications. He did so with ease and has applied his knowledge in Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Microsoft Power Platform to multiple projects across several clients.

A slam dunk new career

Sam’s combination of technical prowess and ability to communicate with client stakeholders and teammates make him a model developer. Clients have specifically asked for him to participate on new projects. He thrives on continuous learning, pushing himself to stay on the cutting edge. And when he needs a moment to contemplate a problem, he heads to the hardwood to drain some threes and always comes back with a slam dunk solution.