Affordable New Full Stack Developer Training Program Launched

June 28, 2022

Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology announced the launch of a low cost, state-of-the-art full stack developer training program that aims to rapidly create a new, highly tech-skilled diverse workforce to help resolve the talent shortage and diversity challenges in the Greater Boston area.

What makes this initiative unique is that while many private-public programs exist at universities, the vast majority cost upwards of $15k, only last 3 months, and lack the depth of technical competency required for budding coders to be hired at Greater Boston tech companies. This new program is a partnership between the college and tech training provider Qwasar Silicon Valley, designed to quickly and inexpensively teach students coding skills that are closely aligned with the current job market.

There is currently a shortage of skilled tech workers in Greater Boston and across America with 1.3 million open tech jobs. Despite some major tech companies’ efforts to create more diverse workforces, there still are far fewer Hispanics and Blacks working within tech companies compared to the general population. Many coding bootcamps can be too cost prohibitive for people from disadvantaged backgrounds to be able to consider a job in technology. This low cost but high-skill program hopes to address this by creating an affordable new pathway to quickly become qualified to start working in well-paid full stack developer positions.

The program is geared toward students with moderate technology skills and a strong interest in working in the tech field. Its online format offers tremendous flexibility to working adults, while the regularly scheduled sessions with an instructor and the cohort model in which students work on projects together (virtually) provide both support and accountability.

“This program offers a flexible, affordable way to gain the skills needed to start or advance your career in this high-demand tech specialty,” said Liem Tran, Director of the college’s Division of Professional and Continuing Studies. “This rigorous program can serve as a pathway to economic security for individuals willing to put in the work, as well as a talent pipeline for companies seeking to build a diverse, highly trained workforce.”

Kwame Yamgnane, CEO of Qwasar, commented “We hope this endeavor will help move the needle on diversity in tech by addressing the tech talent pipeline problems while providing skills-based training options that are affordable. We need more of these programs across the US.”

The program is a 9-month not-for-credit certificate program in full stack development. This advanced course is designed for people with a strong interest in getting a job in technology and who have moderate computer skills.

The program is focused on 5 major areas that employers in the Boston area want:

• Depth and breadth of applied technical skills
• Strong technical portfolio
• Software development experience
• Technical interview practice and preparation
• Soft skill development, including structured problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity

Qwasar also works with enrolled students to help them get hired at companies upon completing the program. It has a roster of employers interested in hiring program graduates and regularly invites employers who are looking to hire more diverse coders to attend demo days and recruitment fairs.

To find out more please visit the Full Stack Developer program webpage.

About Qwasar

Qwasar Silicon Valley is a global leader in technical skills development for in-demand fields in digital careers. It is the only innovative, project-based learning platform designed for adult learners. Infused with automations, data, and advanced learning science. The Qwasar platform is one of the most advanced skills-based learning platforms in the world. It was founded in 2019 by education veteran Kwame Yamgnane, co-founder of 42, edtech marketer Jennifer Robertson, and successful AI-startup founder Gaëtan Juvin.