What is Pragmatic Works Foundation?
The Pragmatic Works Foundation is a non-profit organization created to find passionate people who are interested in joining the technology field but cannot make the financial investments needed for training and hardware. The goal is to provide candidates the opportunity to learn new technologies from industry experts. In addition to offering free training, we work with our onsite recruiter to help place candidates who complete training with a new career in technology. We all respect and honor those who have served for our country, that’s why we are devoted to helping veterans that are interested in transitioning to a new IT career.
What does it involve?
After submitting a personal profile for consideration, qualified candidates will be selected to attend an orientation. The purpose of the orientation is to inform selected candidates of the different technical career options available and what to expect from each. This also gives candidates the opportunity to ask questions so they can determine if our program is truly for them. IT jobs are not for everyone, so the orientation is a great way to determine whether or not this is the right career path for you.
Following the orientation, approximately 6 candidates will be invited back for a week (with an optional second week) of training.
What makes someone a qualified candidate?
- A well thought out personal profile
- A passion for technology
- A strong work ethic
- Ability to learn and retain new information quickly
- Willingness to spend time studying outside of training hours
In addition to these qualifying attributes, potential candidates transitioning from any of the United States Armed Forces will receive special consideration. Please do not apply if you have been convicted of a felony.
What is required of me?
The most important thing you can bring to Foundation is your excitement and desire to learn. It is by no means an easy task to learn a new technology, but with a strong work ethic both in the classroom and at home, your likelihood of success in our program will be high. If you are transitioning from a job you currently hold you will be required to have one week (with a second optional week) off for training.
How can I be considered?
If you would like to be considered by our review panel to join our next group of candidates please fill out a personal profile and return it to foundation@pragmaticworks.com. Those who interview will have to complete a technical test (research based, no prior experience required). Please be aware that for each session, we typically have 3 applications per seat in the class, so make sure you really show your personality in your application.
When is the next class?
We have the classes quarterly or as demand increases, monthly.
Foundation FAQ
Upcoming deadlines:
- Next Class: The next class is on October 24th 2011 to October 28th 2011.
- Profiles Must Be Received By:Applicants must apply by October 5th.
Testimonials
"After learning those beginning T-SQL skills in the PWF, I was able to get into an interview and on Friday afternoon accepted my first IT position as a Data Analyst. It is always exciting to get a new job, but this feels different because it is definitely something that I want to do long-term."
- Guy Johns
"No words can express my gratitude to the entire PW family for being the stepping stone for launching my career and bringing out the best in me. The PWF was definitely a game changer for my career and brought out the best in me. I’m currently working as a SQL Server DBA for a Marketing Intelligence company in Dallas, Texas."
- Miyaka Tabe, MCTS