From self-taught to bootcamp: Viet’s pivot from QA to full-stack engineer

Meet Viet, a 2023 Web Development Bootcamp grad. Initially a self-taught software engineer, he recognized gaps in his coding knowledge—especially in React and Javascript—and turned to Lighthouse Labs to bridge them. With the support of Lighthouse Labs' Career Services, Viet successfully navigated the job hunt, landing his current role as a full-stack engineer specializing in front-end development. His grit and determination to continuously challenge himself and learn new skills have been key to his success both at Lighthouse Labs and in his new career. Similarly, his advice to anyone considering a tech career is to “stay resilient through the setbacks.”

What were you up to before Lighthouse Labs?

I was a QA analyst for a year and three months. I wrote automated UI tests in C# using Selenium and NUnit. I also evaluated the resiliency of the server through JMeter performance testing.

What led you to want to take a tech program, and why did you choose Lighthouse Labs?

I wanted to pursue the web development field. Lighthouse Labs’ Web Development Bootcamp provides a well-structured schedule to learn JavaScript, React, and Ruby on Rails fundamentals, offering a solid foundation for candidates to grow. The bootcamp also has knowledgeable mentors who are readily accessible when you are stuck. And finally, LHL has career support after graduation.

Learn more about Lighthouse Labs’ Career Services

Tell us about your experience with the Web Development Bootcamp.

Since I was self-taught, I missed out on some fundamental concepts. The program reinforces and enhances my web development knowledge, particularly in React and JavaScript. It helped bridge those gaps and advance my skills. Additionally, the Career Services support provided invaluable assistance with resume building and networking, further aiding my career development.

How did the Web Development Bootcamp impact your career?

The program opened up a new career pathway for me. Previously, I was a QA analyst, but it enabled me to transition into a software engineer role.

Talk to us about your new job! Explain a little of what you do now.

I'm still a full-stack engineer, but lately, I've been focusing more on the front-end and working extensively with React and TypeScript.

What do you appreciate most about your new career or what are you most hopeful for moving forward?

What I appreciate most about my new career is the opportunity to deepen my knowledge in the field of software development. Moving forward, I’m most hopeful for continued growth and the chance to tackle more complex challenges.

What’s next? Tell us about you and your future career goals.

I’m currently focused on expanding my tech expertise (particularly in React, Golang/Java) and deepening my knowledge in both front-end and back-end development.

What advice would you give someone who wants to transition into a tech career?

If you love coding, keep learning, stay resilient through setbacks, and let your passion guide you—eventually, it will lead to a fulfilling career in tech.

Sign up for the Web Development Bootcamp today

Ready to find a career in web development like Viet?

At Lighthouse Labs, we're here to help you gain the skills for your next role. Our Web Development Bootcamp is the quickest way to launch a career in web development. We offer an online 12-week, full-time, or 30-week, part-time bootcamp option. The bootcamp includes on-demand mentorship and lifetime Career Services. At the end of the bootcamp, you'll have the tools and skills to level up your resume and find a career in web development.

Read other recent graduates' stories

Learn about Maria’s transition from game development to web development.

See how Gurmol took the leap from business analyst to data developer.