For five years, the Ibm Early Career Program, formerly known as the IBM Apprenticeship Program, has been a game-changer, opening doors for individuals eager to transition into the tech industry. Rooted in IBM’s “New Collar” approach, this program champions skills and knowledge over traditional degrees, making tech careers accessible to talented individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. By prioritizing competencies, IBM is effectively bridging the tech skills gap and injecting fresh perspectives into the industry.
Celebrating its 5th anniversary, we spotlight the inspiring journeys of IBM Early Career Program participants who successfully reinvented their careers and are now thriving IBMers.
Limitless Learning and Growth Opportunities
Spark, Cloud Engineer, IBM
“I’m Spark, a Cloud Engineer – or as we say at IBM, a ‘Technology Engineer’ – within the Client Engineering team. I collaborate with diverse teams and clients to develop MVPs and scalable enterprise solutions with agility. My background wasn’t always tech-focused. I started in sales for startups and gradually became fascinated by the technical aspects. To gain the necessary skills for a career shift, I completed a coding bootcamp. An IBM hire from my bootcamp class alerted me to the Early Career Program (then the Apprenticeship program). I decided to apply and am incredibly proud to be an IBMer now, where continuous learning and skill enhancement are part of the journey!”
Your Tech Career Transformation Can Start Today
DeWayne, Application Developer, IBM Consulting
“My name is DeWayne, and I’m an Application Developer with IBM Consulting. For over two decades before IBM, I was in retail management. Driven by my passion for technology, I sought a career change and decided to pursue further education. A career services specialist introduced me to the IBM Early Career Program (Apprenticeship Program then). I joined the inaugural apprentice cohort at the Monroe, Louisiana Client Innovation Center. The program’s most significant impact for me was realizing that multiple pathways exist into tech, and it’s truly never too late to pursue your aspirations.”
From Retail to Tech: A Career Reinvention
Adrianna, Campus Talent Acquisition Sourcer, IBM
“I’m Adrianna, and my pre-IBM career spanned retail management and various HR, sales, and operations roles. I reached a point where the demanding hours were impacting my work-life balance. Researching companies that hire without requiring a degree, IBM consistently topped the lists. I discovered a Talent Acquisition Coordinator Apprentice position (now Early Career Program) on LinkedIn, updated my profile, and the rest is history. My life transformed dramatically. From constant firefighting, I now enjoy vacations with family, knowing my team is supportive. This quality time with my daughter is invaluable, and IBM made it possible!”
Skills First, Degrees Later: Your Path into IBM
The IBM Early Career Program welcomes individuals passionate about technology. This full-time, earn-and-learn program is designed for those who may not have a traditional four-year degree in a tech-related field but possess valuable skills and a strong desire to learn and grow in the domain.
If you’re ready to redefine your career trajectory and enter the world of technology, the IBM Early Career Program is your launchpad. Let’s connect and explore the possibilities!
