I haven’t always been a software developer — imagine that.
I spent 20 years in Corporate America, taking my career as far as I could without holding a college degree. I’m definitely not green when it comes to work experience. What struck me most when I transitioned into tech was the contrast: the corporate world often felt competitive — dog-eat-dog — while software development introduced me to a culture rooted in collaboration and shared problem-solving.
Forging a Different Path
My path into technology wasn’t traditional.
I made it to Caktus by way of a coding bootcamp and a fellowship opportunity. My sister Jeanette completed a 16-week immersive bootcamp and became quite the success story. She believed I would be a good fit, so I applied — and was accepted.
Even more fortunate, Caktus offered to bring me on as an apprentice/junior developer if I completed the bootcamp successfully.
Well… we all know how that turned out.
March 1st marked my one-year anniversary at Caktus. I love the work I’m doing, and the fact that I learn something new every single day still feels like a wild ride.
Growing Through Mentorship
Caktus has been an incredible space for growth. From day one, I was paired with a senior developer mentor — and I couldn’t have asked for a better learning environment.
What I’ve realized is that developing solutions for clients is about far more than writing code. I bring with me the problem-solving and communication skills I developed over two decades in Corporate America. Those skills matter. They translate. They strengthen the work.
My long-term goal is to become a Technical Project Manager. I’m on a solid path — and I have every intention of reaching that goal.
I can say with conviction that mentorship has played a significant role in that journey.
The power of solid mentorship is guidance, support, and direction.
Guided Learning
Learning itself is a skill — especially when someone helps you focus on what matters most. My mentor has helped me concentrate on the most relevant concepts instead of trying to learn everything at once. Software development is hard. It’s impossible to know everything. A good mentor helps you prioritize what truly moves the needle.
Improved Confidence
Having someone who believes in your potential changes everything.
There were moments when I didn’t think I was ready to take on a ticket. My mentor stepped in and assured me that I was. He was right.
Was my solution perfect? No.
Did it work? Yes.
Did I break anything? Thankfully, no.
That was the win I needed.
Personalized Feedback
We pair-program three times a week, and he’s available whenever I have questions. I rely on that feedback. I use it to identify areas for improvement and accelerate my growth.
Mentorship isn’t just support — it’s structured acceleration.
Stepping Outside the Comfort Zone
Great things can happen when you step outside your comfort zone.
I’m living proof.