Training the Next Generation of Software Developers

Why do we feel the need to train the next-gen?

Eficode Praqma started the Continuous Delivery Academy in 2016 in collaboration with universities across Scandinavia, such as the ITU and OsloMet, aiming to fill a gap that we could see on the majority of software study programs. The DevOps methodologies and Continuous Delivery technologies were not part of the curriculum. Also, little focus was put on practice as opposed to theory, and our experience has shown that practice is the most essential element in our field.

When we engage with a client it makes a tremendous difference to have someone on their side who knows the basics of DevOps and Continuous Delivery. In those cases the level of scalability in the process of adopting DevOps to the company culture can be very high.

The software industry at large is going through many changes when converting to DevOps. This is why we believe that training the next generation of developers in the use of cutting edge tools will make these transitions much smoother for organizations.

Back in 2017, we organized four Continuous Delivery Academies in different universities: Chalmers in Gothenburg, HiOA in Oslo, IT University in Copenhagen and Aarhus University.

So what do the participants learn?

The Course format

Participants receive intense instructor-led, hands-on training in tools such as Git, Docker, and Jenkins. Besides tools training we also provide workshops in testing and problem-solving. Demos, hands-on exercises, and some Lego games is also be part of the training course.

The Continuous Delivery Academy is designed by experienced software professionals to provide the next generation of developers with the necessary skills to conquer the professional world. The course lasts at least four days and in some cases up to two weeks. One of the really great things about Code Academy is that it is free for students and recent graduates from Computer Science and related disciplines, who have not found a full-time job yet.

Tools in practice

• Git: Advanced version control in a team setting
• Jenkins: Build and test automation
• Test Driven Development
• Docker: Build, Ship, Run anywhere

The first days are all about getting in as much training and knowledge as possible. From 9 in the morning until 5 in the afternoon participants will be exposed to many new topics, so they might feel a little overwhelmed. But, after practicing and digesting that knowledge, it all starts to make sense. On the last day of the training, before we say goodbye, all participants get a certificate of participation.

ECTS points

Some universities have started approaching Continuous Delivery as part of the study curriculum. The Continuous Delivery Academy has gained recognition from some programs, so now students in Denmark (at DTU and SDU) can get ECTS points that will be granted to their bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Where and when is it planned for 2019?

This year, over 250 students will be part of the Continuous Delivery Academy in Denmark and Norway, during the summer break, from the beginning of June until the end of August.

• 11-14 June: at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
• 1-5 July: at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
• 5-8 August: at the Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet)
• 5-16 August: at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU