Software Development Training and Job at Microsoft
After a successful pilot program in 2020, this amazing opportunity is back! LaunchCode, in partnership with Microsoft, is executing a FREE course to train 30-40 transitioning military personnel and veterans with TS/SCI clearances in computer programming in a 18-week full-time virtual bootcamp. Graduates of the online course will receive full-time job offers at Microsoft contingent upon completing virtual training, background check, and validation of U.S. Gov't Security Clearance.
Coding experience and a traditional tech background are NOT required! LaunchCode and Microsoft are looking for collaborative, innovative individuals who are willing to work hard and learn the necessary skills.
Students in the bootcamp will learn in-demand skills commonly used at Microsoft including C#, Python, and Azure. The class will run full-time (9am-5pm) from June 7 to October 8, with jobs at Microsoft expected to start in Q4 of 2021. During the course, students will complete a series of assignments to prepare for work at Microsoft.
This course is completely free and SkillBridge/CSP-eligible, so transitioning military personnel can continue to receive their military compensation and benefits during the course. Veterans who are not currently transitioning are welcome, but will not get paid during the training course.
REQUIREMENTS
Microsoft is targeting transitioning military veterans for roles in software development. Eligible candidates must:
- Be a transitioning military service member (any branch), veteran, or reservist
- Have TS/SCI clearance or above (Polygraph strongly preferred)
- Have a transition date no later than December 2021
- Be willing to relocate to Reston, VA; Elkridge, MD; or Redmond, WA to start a job at Microsoft following training. No particular location is guaranteed, but preference will be considered.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Step 1: Apply
To begin, you must complete your online application. You will be asked to share previous work experience and why you feel you would be a great candidate for this training program. Please mention your military accomplishments. We find the commitment exhibited by military veterans is well-suited for software development roles.
Step 2: Problem Solving Assessment
After completing your application for the class, you will receive a brief problem-solving assessment at the email address you used to apply. You will have 60 minutes to complete the assessment. The clock will start running as soon as you open the application, and you must complete the assessment in one sitting. You do not need prior computer programming knowledge to complete the assessment. CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE TO PREPARE.
Note: You must complete this assessment before your application will be considered.
Step 3: Interview
Microsoft will interview top applicants in April/May 2021. They will evaluate candidates based on a behavioral interview and desire to learn software development.
Step 4: Decision Notification
Each applicant will be notified of their status at least two weeks before the start date of the training.
Applications close April 8, so apply today!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What role will I work in after completing the program?
Graduates of the program will assume Site Reliability Engineer roles at Microsoft. Responsibilities include influencing and creating new material for large-scale distribution and creating mission-critical solutions to prevent problems from recurring. There are great benefits, an ideal work environment, and plentiful opportunities for growth!
Will there be future dates for this program?
This is our second year running this program, and although we are hopeful that our partnership with Microsoft will continue, no future dates are scheduled at this time.
Where will graduates of the program work?
Graduates will fill open software engineering positions in Reston, VA; Redmond, WA; and Elkridge, MD. The class has a limited number of seats, and preference will be given to those who want to work in these cities.
Where will the course be taught?
The classes will occur online using video conferencing software. Therefore, students can take the course in any location they like with strong internet access.
What is the SkillBridge Program?
The SkillBridge program gives active duty service members an opportunity to gain valuable work and training experience during their last 180 days of service. You can read more HERE.
Do I need to have previous coding experience?
Nope!
Is the training paid?
Unless you are eligible for SkillBridge or Career Skills Program, this training is not paid. We are not currently eligible for GI Bill or VET TEC benefits. However, it is completely free, and if you can forgo pay for the duration of the course, there is a great job waiting on the other side!
How much does the Microsoft job pay?
Microsoft offers competitive salaries for the tech industry, and a wide range of world-class benefits designed to help you and your family live life well. Benefits include savings and investments, educational resources, generous time away, giving programs, networking opportunities, parental leave, and more. Side note: Glassdoor can be a helpful resource if you’d like to learn more on salaries! Your clearance status may affect these numbers. You may discuss this in the interview portion of your application.
How did this go the first time?
In our first iteration of the class in 2020, we began the course with 31 students, and 28 of them completed the bootcamp and are now working at Microsoft! We were blown away by the success and talent of our students, and we are looking forward to making this new course even more engaging and helping students prepare for success at Microsoft.
MORE QUESTIONS?
Reach out to [email protected] with additional questions!
