From Science to Tech: How to Jumpstart Your Career in Tech

Featuring Cherish-Lovina Isoka-Onwordi

Wondering how you could join and learn from some of the nation’s top experts in the Tech, Data and Design space? Look no further than Sainsbury’s Engineering Jumpstart Programme.

If you’re imagining what it’ll be like, we’ve got you covered in our Jumpstarting my Career in Tech with Sainsbury’s series where we go behind the scenes and speak with real-live Sainsbury’s Tech Academy candidates and find out how they help create better retail experiences for Sainsbury’s customers using tech. We spoke with Cherish to find out about her experience from the world of science to a whole new world of Tech. Let's get into it!

What made you apply for the Engineering Jumpstart programme with Sainsbury’s Tech Academy?

I was looking at making the change from Science to Tech and I wanted to be in a supportive programme where I could learn, whilst also earning a salary. It was a no-brainer! I liked the rotational aspect of the programme and being in the early stages of my tech career, the ability to experience different areas/languages is very advantageous.

What were your expectations before joining and has the experience lived up to this?

I thought that we would be shadowing different teams but it surpassed my expectations. We're integrated within the teams, and in doing so, we feel part of them. We're also responsible for tickets, which at first was daunting, but has now improved my confidence in my own ability/development.

What is the biggest learning you’ve taken away from the experience?

Communication is key, don't suffer on a ticket in silence. Speaking to someone in the team to get advice or looking at how someone has completed something similar can you help unblock your own ticket.

What was your favourite rotation and why?

My favourite rotation was working in Krang. I felt that I was thrown into the deep end, but it was a big learning curve. I would say it's one of my biggest achievements being able to understand what is going on, adding to the team and presenting my work in demos. I found the work challenging, which made it that more interesting.

Which part of the tech stack you use(d) was easiest to pick up, and which was a bit more challenging?

I found that SQL was relatively easy to pick up and Terraform was the most challenging.

What surprised you most about the experience?

Being able to complete large tickets. Coming from a self-taught path, I surprise myself with each ticket I finish.

If you could give any advice to someone looking to join the programme, what would it be?

Just go for it! I was very close to not applying, due to self-doubt. However, I took a chance and it has been the best decision that I have made!

Applications are now closed.