5 Things to Look for in a Tech Career Launchpad

Are you looking to launch a new career in tech? Do you have some coding experience under your belt, but don’t know how to turn it into a real job opportunity? Are doors being closed in your face because you lack tech work experience? If that sounds like you, don’t worry. No matter your background, there’s a fantastic alternative to a grueling tech job search—a Tech Career Launchpad.

In this article, we’ll walk you through five things to look for when choosing a tech careers program that’s right for you.

But first, let’s take a closer look at the opportunity in tech.

In the decade to come, tech roles are projected to grow much faster than those in any other sector, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. What’s more, the median wage for tech workers is almost double that of all other occupations. Among these, roles involving machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) command a 17.7% premium, according to a report by Dice.

So, if you’ve been thinking about switching careers or leveling up in tech, now is the time to go for it. And there’s no better way to get going than through a Tech Career Launchpad program.

 

What is a Tech Career Launchpad?

Tech Career Launchpad programs are designed to help you start, accelerate, or pivot into a tech career—especially if you lack prior experience in the industry. These programs typically combine intensive training, career coaching, and project-based learning to fast-track you into a high-demand role in software development, data, cloud, cybersecurity, AI, and more.

But with so many programs available, how do you choose the right one? We’re here to help you cut through the noise and discover what makes a great Tech Career Launchpad. Here are five things to look for to ensure the program meets industry standards, aligns with your goals, and sets you up for long-term success.

 

1. Structured Training and Skills Development

While theory has its place, nothing beats hands-on training. Tackling real-world tech projects not only sharpens your skills but also gives you strong examples to use in job interviews. Coding sprints and certifications are also great tools to help you master the technologies you’ll use on the job every day.

When evaluating a Tech Career Launchpad program, make sure the skills being taught are actually in demand. At Smoothstack, for example, we custom-train our candidates in the exact platforms and technologies that our employer partners need—ranging from AI and cloud technologies to DevOps, data, and more. Want a preview? Check out our free on-demand courses.

2. Real Job Placement

Job hunting is hard—especially when you’re entering the tech industry and wondering how your background will compare to others. That’s why the best Tech Career Launchpads provide a real job placement at the end of training. At Smoothstack, we partner with Fortune 500 companies and major tech employers to offer candidates a guaranteed two-year contract. That gives you the best possible head start in your new career. 

3. Career & Placement Support

Writing résumés, applying to jobs, and preparing for interviews can feel overwhelming—especially while learning new skills and managing other responsibilities outside of work. While some programs leave you to figure it out on your own, we support you every step of the way. As well as providing training and a guaranteed job placement, we’ll help you refine your résumé and run mock interviews, so you’re fully prepared for the real thing. Even after you start your new job, our mentors are available to guide and support you throughout your contract.

4. No Hidden Costs or Sketchy Contracts

With the current demand for tech professionals, you shouldn’t have to pay for a quality training program. In fact, the best employers will pay you to train and work for them! Be wary of programs that charge high upfront fees or lock you into unclear agreements. At Smoothstack, training is free—and we pay you during our 8–12 week training period, so you can fully focus on building the skills you’ll need to succeed.

5. Track Record of Success

Whether you’re a recent graduate looking to break into the industry or a tech professional ready to level up, a program’s track record says it all. The best Tech Career Launchpads have alumni who’ve gone on to successful careers—and they’re not shy about sharing those stories. Take a look at ours to see if Smoothstack is the right fit for you.

 

Ready to take your career to new heights?

Here at Smoothstack, we don’t just offer training. Our program is designed to help you launch a sustainable career in tech—or accelerate the one you’ve already started! Excited? Take the first step and apply today.