Career Heroes - Jake Curragh

Tell us more about you

I’m 19 years old and I’m really interested in technology and how it can be used to solve problems.

I went to Wellington College, Belfast, and instead of going to university I decided to pursue an apprenticeship in software development with Allstate. I’m currently working full time while also taking classes to learn more about coding and software development. It’s been an exciting journey so far and I’m looking forward to learning even more.

When I’m not working, I like playing video games with my friends. I’m also interested in exploring new technologies and learning more about how they work.

What kind of work do you do?

As a web developer, my job involves working in a team of other developers to plan, develop, and maintain software projects for use on the internet. We use an agile approach, which means we work in short bursts to create software that can be tested and improved quickly.

One of the things I really like about my job is that it’s remote/hybrid, which means I get to work from home. I set up my own workspace and can work in a way that suits me best. I’m able to collaborate with my team through calls and messaging, and we work together to make sure we’re all on the same page.

I really enjoy being a software developer because it’s a job that challenges me and allows me to be creative. I get to use my problem-solving skills to create software that helps other developers achieve their goals. This aspect of the job is really rewarding for me because I’m able to see the impact of my work and how it makes a difference.

How did you become a Apprentice Web Developer?

I became a web developer through an apprenticeship scheme that I applied for when I was in Year 14. I'd always been interested in technology and enjoyed solving problems, so I decided to pursue a career in software development. The apprenticeship route allows me to gain practical experience while also studying for degree in Computing Systems at Ulster University.

Before starting the apprenticeship, I worked part-time in an IT role for my friend’s dad. I've always enjoyed tinkering with computers and programming in my free time, which helped me to develop my skills and knowledge of this field.

If you could do-over, What would you do differently?

If I could do it all over again, I would have started exploring programming earlier. I didn’t really discover my passion for coding until I was in my late teens, and I sometimes wonder if I had been exposed to it sooner, I might have been able to start my career in software development earlier.