When Francis Jonathan Lloyd traded in his boiler suit for a laptop, he wasn’t just changing jobs, he was redefining his future. A former boilermaker and metal sheet fabricator, Francis dreamed of a more flexible and fulfilling career. That dream became reality after he completed the Software Engineering Bootcamp through HyperionDev, an experience that launched him into the tech world, and ultimately landed him a role as a Coding Mentor for the very bootcamp that helped him grow.
From Physical Grit to Digital Grit
Francis’s previous work was physically demanding and, at times, dangerous. “Working a physical job can be strenuous and risky,” he says. “I knew I was capable of more and wanted something mentally stimulating and flexible. I wanted to work remotely, from a beach, a coffee shop, anywhere.”
Like many others considering a career change to tech, Francis started with self-study. He taught himself the basics of Python programming before realising that he needed a structured learning path and industry-recognised qualification. That’s when he found HyperionDev.
Finding the Right Fit with Online, Part-Time Learning
Francis enrolled in the online, part-time Software Engineering Bootcamp, a flexible format that fit perfectly with his schedule and learning style. He found the balance between guided content, hands-on tasks, and access to professional code reviewers invaluable. “The tasks were my favourite part,” he explains. “They let me really practice my coding skills, and the code reviews showed me alternative ways of thinking and solving problems, which is exactly how it works in the industry.”
Throughout the course, he tackled a range of technical concepts, including Python, Django, SQL, and even Docker. While Docker posed a particular challenge near the end of the bootcamp, Francis embraced it. “I was happy for the challenge, it helped me grow.”
From Bootcamp Grad to Coding Mentor
After completing the bootcamp, Francis applied for a student champion position at HyperionDev. That application led to an unexpected but exciting opportunity, a job offer to join the team as a Coding Mentor. “I use what I’ve learned in the bootcamp every day,” Francis shares. “Now, I’m guiding new students through their own coding journeys, just like others helped me.”
He’s currently using the same stack he learned, Python, SQL, and additional tools to build real-world apps. One project he’s particularly proud of is a Kivy-based app using Python and SQL. He’s also built:
- A script to turn images into ASCII art
- A code comparison tool that benchmarks which code block runs faster
These personal projects help Francis sharpen his skills while giving back to the community of learners that supported him.
Remote Work Motivation and Real-World Results
At the heart of Francis’s journey was a simple, yet powerful, motivation: remote work freedom. “I love the idea of working from anywhere. It’s about owning your time” he says. Now in a fully remote role, Francis enjoys that flexibility, and the opportunity to keep growing in tech.
His long-term goal? To become a mid-level or senior developer within five years. With his current trajectory, it’s clear he’s well on his way.
Advice for Future Coders
Francis doesn’t sugarcoat the process: “It’s difficult. You have to try your best, keep practicing, and not give up.” But he’s living proof that the effort pays off. From a physically demanding job to a rewarding tech career, Francis has carved out a new path for himself, one that others can follow.
“Code gives us the power to tell machines what to do. Because technology is so intertwined with our lives, coding can absolutely change the world, even in small ways.”
Inspired by Francis’s story?
Explore your own path to remote tech work with the HyperionDev Software Engineering Bootcamp.
