From Freelance Web Developer to Full-Time Developer: How Daniel Made a Tech Career Move

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After years of working solo, Daniel Wilson wanted more. More challenge. More structure. More opportunity. That search led him to HyperionDev’s Online Software Engineering Bootcamp, and ultimately, a full-time Junior Developer role at Sparta Global.

Why Daniel Chose to Upskill in Software Engineering

With a background in web development, Daniel was already comfortable with the basics of tech. But as the industry evolved and demand for versatile developers increased, he realised that moving into software engineering would open more doors.

“I wanted to build on my web development skills and move into software. I just needed a new challenge.”

Instead of starting from scratch, he chose to upskill with the Software Engineering Bootcamp, a decision that aligned perfectly with his flexible, self-employed lifestyle.

Balancing Learning with Life: Why Online Part-Time Was the Perfect Fit

The flexibility of the bootcamp gave him the freedom to balance learning with freelance work. He could study in between jobs and adjust his pace as needed.

“Being self-employed made it easier, I could pick up the bootcamp when I had time.”

This allowed him to go deep into problem-solving without time pressure, especially during the most rigorous elements of the bootcamp.

Capstone Projects: His Favourite (and Toughest) Challenge

The highlight, and the biggest challenge, of the Software Engineering Bootcamp was the capstone projects.

“They were fun and challenging. I had to dig into extra materials and try different methods to solve problems in the code.”

These real-world, portfolio-ready tasks pushed him to apply critical thinking and sharpen his skills in Python, one of the bootcamps core languages. Through these projects, he developed not only technical expertise but also the confidence to take on more complex programming challenges.

Learning in the Real World: Gaining Practical Knowledge and Experience

Throughout the bootcamp, Daniel built a strong foundation in Python and Java, learned how to debug efficiently, and developed a personal GitHub portfolio that played a key role in helping him secure his first tech role.

“I built a portfolio that got me my first job. It showed I could code and solve problems independently.”

By the time he finished the course, he wasn’t just proficient in software programming, he was ready for the professional tech world.

Starting a New Career: Junior Developer at Sparta Global

Before completing the full career services process, Daniel landed a role as a Junior Developer at Sparta Global, thanks in part to a task he completed during the bootcamp.

“I actually found the job during one of the Build Your Brand (BYB) tasks. It was a friendly interview process, and I felt ready for it.”

Now part of an eight-week academy training program, he’s diving deeper into Java and preparing for a two-year placement as a Consultant Developer.

“I’ve already created a few Java projects, including a random film generator for movie nights. It’s exciting to apply what I’ve learned.”

Although he didn’t go through the full career services program, the bootcamp’s practical focus and portfolio-building components, like the Build Your Brand (BYB) tasks, were instrumental in helping him secure the role early.

Working in Agile Teams and Thinking Like a Developer

The bootcamp experience gave him more than just technical skills. It prepared him for working in agile environments and collaborating within development teams.

“I now understand how programming teams operate under agile and scrum frameworks, which is already helping in my current role.”

These insights, combined with his foundation in Python and Java, helped him hit the ground running.

Looking Ahead: From Junior Developer to Senior Engineer

Daniel isn’t slowing down. He sees his role at Sparta Global as the beginning of a long and fulfilling career in tech.

“The bootcamp gave me the confidence to go for roles I wouldn’t have before. I want to grow into a senior developer position in the next five years.”

His advice to others thinking about making the leap into tech?

“Just go for it. You’ve got nothing to lose.”

Changing the World with Code

For Daniel, coding is more than just a profession, it’s a way to contribute to global innovation.

“Code is already changing the world in thousands of ways. I want to be a part of that.”

Inspired by Daniel’s story? Explore HyperionDev’s flexible Software Engineering Bootcamp and take the first step toward your own career in tech.