My Journey Through CodeClan: From Redundancy to Software Development

In the the changing world of technology, learning and adapting are key to staying relevant. In 2016, I found myself facing an unexpected turn in my career path when redundancy knocked on my door.

Changing careers into software development can feel daunting, but structured learning environments like coding bootcamps can provide a clear path forward.

Little did I know that this seemingly unfortunate event would lead me to discover CodeClan, a Scottish gem that would shape my future and transform my skillset. 

As I pen down this blog post, I reflect on my personal journey with CodeClan, an institution that has sadly gone into administration, leaving a void in the Scottish tech education scene.

Discovering CodeClan

In the heart of Edinburgh, nestled amidst the city's rich history, lay CodeClan – a small yet impactful institution committed to teaching software development skills. The news of my redundancy in 2016 marked the beginning of a new chapter, one that was paved by chance, leading me to this haven of knowledge. CodeClan was not just a place of learning; it was a community, a hub of creativity, and an avenue of endless opportunities.

Learning to Code: The Bootcamp Experience

Embarking on a 16-week bootcamp at CodeClan was an exhilarating and intensive experience. Alongside approximately 25 other students, I delved headfirst into the world of coding, navigating my way through intricate algorithms, debugging conundrums, and the art of crafting elegant code. The days were long and demanding, but the atmosphere was brimming with camaraderie, support, and a shared passion for programming.

A Day in the Life

Each weekday was a whirlwind of learning and collaboration. Mornings were dedicated to classroom sessions where our talented tutors guided us through the intricacies of software development. The afternoons brought paired projects, where we honed our skills by working together to tackle real-world coding challenges. Through the highs and lows, CodeClan became more than just a learning institution; it became a second home, a place where we fostered lasting friendships and shared in each other's victories.

Changing Career Direction

The 16 weeks I spent at CodeClan were transformative, and the skills I acquired became the cornerstone of my career shift. Breaking free from the confines of the oil and gas industry, I stepped into a new realm, armed with the ability to craft digital solutions and contribute to the ever-evolving world of technology. CodeClan had not only equipped me with the tools of the trade but had also empowered me with the confidence to embrace change and thrive in a dynamic industry.

Looking back, the most valuable part of the experience wasn’t just learning to code—it was learning how to think differently, solve problems, and adapt to a completely new field.

That shift in mindset is something I still rely on today.

The Closure of CodeClan

However, like all good things, my time at CodeClan came to an end, and it is with a heavy heart that I learned of the institution's recent closure. With immediate effect, the staff bid their farewells, and the ongoing courses were abruptly terminated. The news was a blow not only to the dedicated team behind CodeClan but also to the countless students who had benefited from its expertise and guidance.

The Lasting Impact of CodeClan

While the details of CodeClan's downfall remain elusive, one thing is certain – its impact on Scotland's tech landscape and the countless lives it touched are immeasurable. CodeClan's legacy lives on in the alumni who have gone on to make meaningful contributions to the tech industry, and the employers who have benefited from the well-trained talent pool it nurtured.

Conclusion

As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the time I spent at CodeClan. The memories, the friendships, and the skills I acquired will forever hold a special place in my heart. While CodeClan's doors may have closed, its spirit lives on in each student it empowered. As we bid farewell to this cherished institution, I am reminded that the end of one chapter marks the beginning of another. The knowledge, the connections, and the passion ignited within those walls will continue to shape our lives and the tech industry for years to come. Thank you, CodeClan, for the incredible journey. You will be missed.  So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish.

Changing direction—whether in a career or a project—can feel uncertain, but it often leads to better outcomes.

I spend a lot of time helping people navigate change, simplify complex situations, and get things working in a more practical way.

You can take a look at my TechFix service if that sounds relevant.

UK Oil and Gas Licences: Looking Beyond the Headlines

Recent announcements around new oil and gas licences in the UK have raised a lot of discussion. While the headlines focus on jobs, energy security, and cost, it’s worth taking a step back and looking at how these outcomes are likely to play out in practice.

Job Creation: Short-Term vs Long-Term Impact

While the prospect of job creation sounds appealing, history has shown that jobs in the oil and gas industry can often be transient and dependent on market fluctuations. Moreover, many of these companies might have their head offices located outside the UK, meaning that a significant portion of profits and benefits may not circulate within the country.

Environmental Impact and Net Zero Goals

The decision to grant new oil and gas licenses raises concerns about its impact on the environment. As the world faces an urgent need to combat climate change, promoting fossil fuel exploration is counterproductive. The UK's ambitious plans for achieving net-zero emissions will undoubtedly face delays if we continue to invest in oil and gas extraction, undermining the nation's efforts to lead in sustainability.

Will Energy Actually Be Cheaper?

Promising cheaper energy for UK citizens may sound appealing, but the reality is quite different. The energy produced from these new licenses is likely to be traded at international prices, meaning any potential savings for consumers will be minimal or non-existent. In many cases, the financial benefits are likely to flow primarily to energy companies and their investors, rather than directly to consumers..

Who Really Benefits?

Unfortunately, it appears that the major beneficiaries of these new licenses will not be the ordinary citizens of the UK but rather the vested interests of powerful corporations and politicians. The close ties between political figures and energy companies raise concerns about potential conflicts of interest and prioritize private gains over the public's well-being.

Conclusion

In light of the Prime Minister's announcement to issue 100 new oil and gas licenses for the UK, it is crucial for citizens to look beyond the surface-level promises and critically assess the implications of such decisions. Rather than fostering a sustainable future with genuine job growth and environmental stewardship, this move risks compromising the UK's commitment to combating climate change and reaching net-zero emissions.

It is essential to hold our leaders accountable and demand transparent and responsible decision-making that genuinely benefits the nation as a whole, rather than a select few with vested interests. Only through thoughtful discourse and collective action can we strive for a better, cleaner, and more sustainable future for our country and the planet.

Looking beyond the headlines is essential if we want decisions that genuinely benefit the long-term future.

From an engineering and systems perspective, this is a familiar pattern. Decisions are often made based on short-term gains without fully considering long-term outcomes, dependencies, and unintended consequences.

It’s not just about energy—it’s about how we design and manage complex systems.

Decisions—whether in technology, projects, or policy—often have unintended consequences when we don’t step back and look at the bigger picture.

I spend a lot of time helping simplify complex systems and understand how different parts interact.

You can take a look at my TechFix service if that sounds relevant.