Ironhack is known for changing lives for the better, allowing careers to be changed when they are simply not fulfilling. There is nothing more exciting than sharing the stories of our alumni, showcasing how successful a career change can be.
Today’s focus will be on Alejandro Cartagena, a 2024 bootcamp graduate who landed a job just two months after completing the bootcamp, and is truly satisfied with his decisions that led him to this point.
We’re eager to share his journey beginning pre-Ironhack and following him all the way to his current role in the tech industry. Let’s begin!
From Accounting to Web Development
Initially thinking his career was in accounting, he later switched to computer science after realizing his passion for programming during a course at Miami Dade College.
“I fell in love with programming.”
“After two years at Miami Dade College, I went to Florida International University to finish my degree in computer science, and I realized – there’s still so much I need to learn.”
Alejandro attended the Venture Miami Tech Hiring Fair, which provided the opportunity to expand his learning in tech by discovering Ironhack’s Web Development Bootcamp, where he earned a full scholarship after applying.
Web Development with Ironhack
Alejandro began his bootcamp journey in April 2024, where he chose the 9-week Web Development Bootcamp in Miami. He was able to gain hands-on experience by building websites, leading projects, and integrating APIs into applications.
Below, we have outlined what exactly stood out to Alejandro during his bootcamp experience at Ironhack.
Learning skills
Landing a role in tech would not be possible without acquiring the necessary skills for that role, which is exactly what Alejandro did during the course. Throughout the bootcamp, Alejandro learned how to build his own project that aligned with his passions, such as a website that shows five different exercises people can do to target specific muscle groups with just one click.
Real-world project work
The ability to develop projects that applied to the real world helped Alejandro prepare for the job market and allowed him to understand complex subjects and concepts in an applicable manner.
“One of the projects I worked on with Ironhack was integrating an open application programming interface (API) – like Chat GPT – into a website.”
“For my project, a user would place a job description in the API, and the website would render behavioral and technical questions to help the user study for a job interview. Building projects like these is what really attracted me to Ironhack.”
Real-world application
Alejandro emphasizes that a bootcamp at Ironhack focuses on practical, real-world skills rather than just theory, offering an intense, full-day schedule like any other job.
“Programs like the website development bootcamp at Ironhack are beneficial because, instead of just focusing on theory, you’re focusing on real-world application.”
Networking opportunities
Ironhack’s environment of growing a community helps students make valuable connections that will benefit them in the long run, especially after completing a bootcamp. Ironhack fosters growth, creating more opportunities in the tech community.
“It's a great opportunity to make connections.”
Landing His First Web Development Job
Within just two months of completing the bootcamp, Alejandro landed a role as a software engineer at XTec Incorporated, a role he credits to the user authentication skills he learned and developed during Ironhack’s bootcamp. His role consists of him building secure websites for cities, which aligns with his passions and interests.
Alejandro advises future Ironhackers to focus on mastering the fundamentals and basics before starting the program to properly handle the intense schedule and material.
Stories like Alejandro’s are a source of inspiration to those who find themselves in the same position, as it demonstrates how easy it is to successfully change careers.
If this story sparked your interest, check out Ironhack’s bootcamp in web development or other fields that align with your passions to land a role that fulfills you.
