Where are they now? An intervew with Michelle Stegeman

Can you tell me a bit more about yourself? (Name, where you live, what you do for your career, etc.)

My name is Michelle and I’m from Almere. I’m a career switcher, leaving behind the hospitality and marketing industry. I’m currently studying Software Engineering at Codam Coding College and doing my MBO Expert IT systems and devices as well.

What inspired you to pursue a career in tech?

When I was in high school I wanted to study robotics but was advised against pursuing a career in tech, so I didn’t. Years later I ended up playing a game called Hacknet and liked it so much I toyed with the idea again. That same week I saw an advert of Codam and that’s the start of how I found my way back and my passion for software engineering. 

How long have you been in the industry? Can you tell us a bit more about your journey to get where you are today?

It’s only been two years since I started at Codam, but it has been great. If you don’t know about Codam, it’s a a peer-to-peer, project-based coding school with a focus on foundational programming in C. The curriculum ensures hands-on experience with languages and tools like C++ and Docker, and during your enrolment you do over 100+ code reviews and spend over 1800+ hours coding. I’m currently doing my final project and started applying for junior back-end engineering positions.

You're a recent recipient of our scholarship - I'd love to know more about what you put the bursary towards and how you applied what you learned to your career?

I used the scholarship to cover part of my MBO Expert IT Systems and Devices course, which has been instrumental in expanding my knowledge and skills, particularly in networking and cybersecurity. Other than that it has given me room to breathe and take part of a lot of the professional development workshops Codam provides. 

Do you have any advice or lessons for women entering the tech industry?

My advice for women entering the tech industry is that they should use all the tools available to them. There’s unfortunately still a gender gap and bias in this industry so anything that’ll help you make that disadvantage smaller, go for it! Workshops, networking events, hackathons etc.  but most importantly mentorships. It’s been invaluable to me to have someone to ask questions to about things like career advice, interview preparation, imposter syndrome or women in tech. Some extra advice for career switchers: It’s not too late! It took some time for me to get where I am now but each experience taught me valuable lessons and I believe that my diverse background helps me approach development with a unique perspective. Focus on your transferrable skills.