Software Engineering Training for Veterans

Are you a veteran returning to civilian life or a member of a veteran’s family aiming to avail yourself of entitlements and benefits? This article is designed to help you navigate your options for taking advantage of these services to enter into a professional skills training program and learn the Software Engineering skills you’ve always wanted to learn. 

Many veterans are well-suited to become software engineers because you may have received specialized software training or have experience in cybersecurity—both of which are needed in this field. Software Engineering plays a critical role in developing and designing software and apps that the military needs to complete its mission, but they aren’t the only ones. Many companies need new software and apps to ensure they run optimally, and you can use your unique insight and experience to help others out.

What is Software Engineering?

Software Engineering is a branch of computer science that focuses on the creation, enhancement, testing and maintenance of software. 

As a software engineer, you will be responsible for creating programs, operating systems and applications. Some of the career paths you might consider exploring include designing and developing computer games, operating systems, network control systems, middleware and business applications, among others.

There is a strong demand for software engineers, which means you can have an incredibly lucrative career. There are also numerous industries that need software engineering, so you’ll be able to work for a company that you find interesting and challenges you to be your best.

What Can You Do with Software Engineering Skills?

As a software engineer, one of your main jobs will be to develop software and applications that transform businesses and people’s lives. That sounds like a tall order, but with the right skills and knowledge, it will be a challenge you happily undertake. Some of the things you can do with Software Engineers skills include the following:

Programming

As a software engineer, you will have programming skills that will allow you to develop software, automate processes and design algorithms. Learning coding and scripting languages can be incredibly useful during this process and give you the skills and knowledge you need to work in a variety of different industries, from healthcare to government to nonprofits and places in between.

Software Development

Software development is tied to programming, and with this skill, you will be able to create a variety of different products that can be used by companies and individuals to make their lives easier or more entertaining. Depending on what interests you, with the right skill set, you can create games, websites or apps, among other software products, for public use.

Software Testing

Developing software is the first step in the Software Engineering process. You then need to make sure your creation actually works and behaves as intended. Having skills in software testing allows you to identify and fix any issues that might arise.

Debugging

This skill goes along with software testing. Once you find issues or problems, you then need to know how to fix them. Having an understanding of code flow is particularly useful in making sure your software runs smoothly. It’s also beneficial to have some problem-solving skills, as this will help you think about issues and problems (and how to fix them) in new and creative ways.

Database Administration

From websites to apps to accounting to other types of software, keeping a business running means keeping their technology running. If you have database administration skills, you’ll be able to keep your employer’s software organized and maintained—and potentially create new software to improve the company’s effectiveness and efficiency.

Documentation and Communication

As a software engineer, you’ll have a lot of technical skills that will be highly valued by others because you’ll be able to develop software that makes life easier. However, having documentation and communication skills will take you to the next level.

With documentation skills, you’ll be able to create manuals or other types of writing that includes clear descriptions of the software’s features, its functionality and how it should be used.

No matter what company or industry you work in, you will find yourself needing to explain complex ideas to individuals who don’t have the same technical understanding you do, and that’s where communication skills come in handy. Having the skills to convey information in simple, easy-to-understand terms will make you an incredibly valuable employee.

Support for Veterans

After you have completed your service and are looking to transition back into civilian life, there are some options you have when it comes to paying for education and training, including the GI Bill, which can help you pay for training if you want to become a software engineer. To obtain these funds, you need to apply, and you will be told how much you qualify for.

Once you know how much money you can use, you can then start looking for the right Software Engineer training program for you. At Noble Desktop, there are several different options for you to choose from, including the following:

Software Engineering Certificate 

The Software Engineering Certificate class available from Noble Desktop covers a wide range of subjects, including front end development with HTML & CSS, JavaScript and React, as well as back-end development that focuses on Python, Django and Node.js. In addition to a structured curriculum, you’ll also get one-on-one mentoring to ensure you have the skills and knowledge you need to become a software engineer.

Full-Stack Web Development Certificate

Full-stack web development skills are part of being a software engineer, and you can use your veterans benefits to take a full-stack web development certificate class that will teach you what you need to meet the growing demand of professionals who are needed to develop and maintain web applications. Once you’ve completed this class, you’ll have a portfolio that you’ll be able to show to potential employers and/or clients that highlights your skills and knowledge.

Python Developer Certificate

Python is a fundamental programming language that is used by software engineers and other computer programmers. In this class, you’ll learn Python programming fundamentals, along with web development using Django and Django REST. Under the guidance of the lead instructor, who happens to be an industry professional, you’ll put together a portfolio that showcases your technological skills.

Why Learn Software Engineering

There is a growing demand in the world for software engineers, and with your discipline and specialized knowledge base, you are uniquely suited to venture into this field. In addition to finding a career that is fulfilling and lucrative, some of the other reasons why you should learn Software Engineering include the following:

Flexibility

Practically every industry on the planet can benefit from Software Engineering, as the main purpose of the job is to develop, build, maintain and repair software solutions and apps. As the world becomes more digitized, it will be hard to find a business that doesn’t need this technology in one form or another.

With that in mind, after learning Software Engineering skills, you get to choose where and when you work. Depending on your skill set and the company you work for, you may even be able to work remotely.

Job Satisfaction

If you like challenges and a work day that differs from the day before, then becoming a software engineer might just be what you need. Software Engineering comes with challenges, and it requires creativity and problem-solving skills. Should you enjoy finding solutions to problems and developing technology that makes people’s lives easier, then you’ll get a lot of satisfaction out of your job as a software engineer.

Continuous Learning

Technology doesn’t remain static; it is constantly changing and evolving, and you have to stay up to date with the latest trends if you want to be successful at your job. If you consider yourself a life-long learner and are always looking for ways to stay educated, then Software Engineering is the career path for you.

Why Choose a Skills Bootcamp?

Choosing a skills bootcamp over going to college is incredibly beneficial—especially when you are transitioning out of military life back into civilian life. Sure, there are some perks to getting a four-year degree, but there are some benefits to attending a skills bootcamp for Software Engineering:

You Are Employable Faster

While some employers want you to have a four-year degree, most companies are interested in knowing you have the skills and knowledge they are looking for, and you’ll get those in a shorter amount of time when you attend a bootcamp. 

You Can Build a Portfolio

The fastest and easiest way to let a potential employer or client know that you have the right skills is by showing them your portfolio—and you’ll be able to build one when you choose a skills bootcamp.

You Get Better Value for the Money

It’s no secret that going to college is incredibly expensive. You may not have to worry about the monetary cost due to your veterans benefits, but what about your time? College can be a rite of passage, but it can also take a long time to obtain the skills you need for the workforce, and you have to take a lot of classes that don’t necessarily have anything to do with your career focus.

Bootcamps, on the other hand, cost a lot less and provide you with the specific skills you need to become a software engineer in a lot less time. 

You Get the Chance to Network

Bootcamps are often taught by industry professionals, which means you are exposed to individuals who have direct access to companies that are looking for people with your skill set. In addition to adding the instructor to your network of connections, you’ll also interact with a wide range of students and potentially previous alumni. Not only does this network give you the chance to expand and hone your Software Engineering skills, but it may also help you find a job once you’ve earned your certificate.

Learn Software Engineering at Noble Desktop

Making the decision to obtain Software Engineering skills can be incredibly lucrative and rewarding. Whether you’re a beginner, have some computer skills or are a professional, there are still skills you can learn to transition into or excel further in this exciting and profitable industry. To get started, Noble Desktop offers a wide range of online and in-person classes that will fit your schedule and budget.

Whether you’re looking to become a certified software engineer or want one or two classes to round out your skill set, you’ll find exactly what you need at Noble Desktop. Register for classes today to ensure you have the career of tomorrow!