If you are looking to pursue a career in tech, you might be wondering what the best way to enter the industry is. You want to choose the option that will provide you with the skills you need and the networking opportunities to find a job after you complete your training. One of the most popular options for starting in the tech industry is attending a bootcamp. Are you wondering which route is the best choice for you? In this blog, we will go over the difference between a tech apprenticeship and a tech bootcamp so you can make the best-informed decision to start your tech training!
Bootcamp
Coding bootcamps are short, intensive programs that are meant to train you in the necessary skills to enter the tech industry. There are no specific time frames for bootcamp training programs, though they typically last, on average, 16 weeks. Students graduate from the program with the knowledge and skills to pursue a career in tech.
The Process
While you do not need to have any prior experience to enroll in a bootcamp, it is helpful to have a basic understanding of computer functions and how coding works. Tech bootcamps last, on average, 16 weeks. Most camps offer a full-time or a part-time option, which will determine the length of the program. The average cost of a bootcamp as of 2020 was $13,579, though they can range from $1,300 to $30,000. According to Course Report’s research, the average person who enrolls in a tech bootcamp is an adult with 7 years of work experience, though not necessarily in programming, and has a bachelor’s degree.
Tech bootcamps are designed to train you on one main skill, whether it be web development, software development, data science, or another tech-related skill. Certain bootcamps teach specific coding languages, so if you are looking for something specific, make sure to include that in your bootcamp research.
After a technology bootcamp, you will have the skills to pursue a career in your chosen field. Some bootcamps assist their students in finding employment or internships after the bootcamp, but it is never guaranteed. Because of this, it is important to weigh your options when considering your options for technology training.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are something many people associate with hands-on trades, such as construction or electrical work. However, they have recently made their way into the technology industry. With a tech apprenticeship, candidates can receive training while earning pay and getting their foot in the door with the company that hosts them as an apprentice.
The Process
Apprenticeship programs are an excellent choice for candidates with little-to-no experience in pursuing a career in the tech industry. Many apprenticeship programs do not require a degree. In fact, many apprenticeship programs prefer candidates who have recently graduated high school or have less experience. With Apprentice Now’s apprenticeship opportunities, candidates receive pre-apprenticeship training before they start the apprenticeship within their chosen field. Candidates will have the opportunity to complete the apprenticeship and have the potential to stay on as an employee of the sponsoring company. Many tech apprenticeships, including Apprentice Now, cost nothing for candidates as long as they finish the program and accept a job offer. This is possible because companies sponsor the training for individuals to be prepared for their apprenticeships.
Benefits of an Apprenticeship
There are many benefits of participating in a tech apprenticeship program:
- Hands-on experience – With an apprenticeship, you gain hands-on experience in the field you plan to enter. While you will gain the knowledge needed for the career, you will also learn technical skills in a real-life work environment.
- Learn while you earn – In addition to gaining hands-on experience, with an apprenticeship you will also earn money while gaining that experience. One of the biggest benefits of an apprenticeship is that you earn while you learn, making it an excellent option for those who want to get an education, but need a steady income.
- Pathway to a career – Apprenticeships serve as a pathway to the career you intend to pursue, usually with the company you serve an apprenticeship with! By getting to know the company through an apprenticeship, you have a better chance of maintaining a career with them, which eliminates the stress of job-hunting and allows you to create a pathway to success within your chosen career.
- Gain an education with little to no debt – Many apprenticeships are employer-sponsored, meaning your education is paid for as long as you accept the apprenticeship or employment offer. This is a great way to enroll in a training program at no out-of-pocket cost.
- Kickstart your career – Many students who attend community or 4-year college, or even boot camp training programs, will have to wait longer to enter the workforce. With an apprenticeship program, you will kickstart your career and become that much closer to promotions and advancements within your profession.
