Discover Intro to Coding: Free Online Python Course for Beginners

TLDR: Code Platoon instructor Roger gives a sneak peek at Intro to Coding: a free, self-paced online Python course for beginners. With Intro to Coding, you’ll learn Python online with real programming skills from lesson one. Explore 50+ hands-on coding exercises to go from “Hello World” to building your first Python projects, all on your schedule. No experience is needed to start learning Python.

If you’ve ever thought, I’d like to try coding, but I don’t know where to start, you’re not alone. Many beginners feel unsure about taking that first step into tech. That’s exactly why we built Intro to Coding, a free, self-paced course designed to help you learn Python online, build practical skills, and discover if coding could be your next career move.

Why Learn Python?

Python is one of the most widely used programming languages in the world. It powers everything from websites and apps to artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analysis.

Python is highly sought after by employers, making it a smart choice if you’re considering a tech career,” Roger De La Garza, Army Veteran and Intro to Coding Instructor, explains. 

“Python is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly programming languages out there. It’s easy to read and write, almost like English.”

How Intro to Coding Works

This online course is built specifically for beginners who are looking for a practical introduction to programming. When you start Intro to Coding, you won’t spend hours hearing about theory before you touch a keyboard. You’ll start writing real programs in the very first lesson.

Each lesson introduces a single concept in plain language, then shows you exactly how it works. You’ll watch a short video, see Roger walk through examples, and then jump into our built-in code editor to try it yourself. 

“The only way to get better at coding is by coding,” Roger says. “We’ll start with ‘Hello, World!’ and work our way up to building a real Python project from scratch—the kind of work you can add to a portfolio.”

“You’ll get to experiment, make mistakes, and figure out new solutions to the coding exercises I’ve made for you. That’s how you’ll develop your problem-solving skills and start feeling like a real software engineer.”

Ready to give it a try?

You don’t need to be a tech whiz or spend hours watching Python tutorials online to get a sense of whether coding could be right for you. You just need curiosity and an interest in discovering software engineering. 

“My advice is just open the first lesson, write your first line of Python, and see where it takes you,” Roger says. “You might be surprised by how much you love it—and how quickly you’ll start thinking like a programmer.”

Join Intro to Coding on LaunchPoint and start learning Python online today.

Beyond Software Engineering: 6 Tech Career Paths for Coding Bootcamp Grads

TLDR: If you’re curious about a coding bootcamp but not sure you want to be a software developer, you’re in luck. Coding skills can open doors to careers in data, product design, tech leadership, and more. This guide shares six exciting tech roles and real stories from Veterans and military spouses who’ve made the leap to them.

When you think about the jobs people get after a coding bootcamp, “software engineer” is probably what comes to mind. But what if you aren’t sure that building software full-time is going to be your thing? Don’t worry, you aren’t alone!

I’ve seen Veterans and military spouses get non-developer jobs that combine their technical training with the problem-solving, leadership, creativity, and strategy built from their military backgrounds. Whether you’re more analytical, people-focused, or a big picture thinker, we can help set you up for success in a wide range of tech careers. Below are six in-demand careers you may not have considered but can definitely pursue after coding bootcamp:

1. Data Engineer

Data Engineers are like detectives. They sift through data to spot trends, make forecasts, and help organizations make smarter decisions, whether that’s in healthcare, finance, retail, or beyond. If you enjoy puzzles and figuring out patterns, data engineering could be your ideal career.

“During bootcamp, I was better at working on the back end of my projects, which is how I became a data engineer. In my role, I work with the product teams to find out what data and connections they need to work better, and then I build the solutions for them. I like what I’ve been able to do so far, and I want to keep doing it as long as I can.” 

Jon, Navy Veteran and Data Engineer at ExxonMobil

2. Optimization Specialist

Optimization Specialists make tech work better. That might mean improving a website’s performance or cutting costs across a company’s tech stack. This role blends coding, data, and strategic thinking, making it perfect for a coding bootcamp grad who likes to tweak and fine-tune their programs until they run as efficiently as possible.

“I used to work in business, and I’ve always been passionate about making a meaningful impact. At Amazon Web Services (AWS), I help customers get more value out of their cloud solutions. My background and technical skills help me bridge the gap between strategy and execution, whether I’m helping someone save money, building scalable solutions, or supporting our teams.”

Crystal, military spouse and Cost Optimization & Acceleration Specialist at AWS

3. Technical Team Lead/Manager

If you’ve been in leadership roles during your military career, this career path might feel like home. Technical Team Leads guide software teams, mentor junior developers, help solve problems, and make sure projects move forward. This is a great fit for a bootcamp grad who enjoys working with people just as much as writing code—just know you’ll need some software engineering experience to get up the career ladder to this position.

“First, I worked on a ‘bug smash team,’ where I spent a lot of time researching and reviewing metrics. I began overseeing subcontractors because I became the subject matter expert, and then I became the Team Lead… I help manage my team’s priorities with our software product, lead Agile ceremonies, and work with stakeholders to create the future of our technologies.” 

James, Army National Guard Veteran and Product and Technical Team Lead at Procore Technologies

4. QA Engineer

Quality Assurance (QA) Engineers or Analysts are the last line of defense before a product goes live. They test software, find bugs, and help ensure a smooth user experience. If you’re someone who takes pride in catching mistakes and solving tough problems, this role is a great way to blend coding knowledge from bootcamp with a focus on finding and fixing mistakes.

“At Zermount, I lead Quality Assurance efforts by creating vulnerability test plans, finding software defects, and creating automated testing to improve our software’s reliability and performance. This work significantly contributes to the overall security and efficiency of the organization.”

Abou, Army Veteran and Zero Trust Compliance/Quality Assurance Engineer at Zermount, Inc.

5. Product Manager

Product Managers (PMs) figure out what needs to be built and why, then figure out how to make it happen. They talk to users, define goals, set priorities, and guide teams of developers, designers, and stakeholders to build products that solve real problems. Even though PMs don’t code, the technical foundation from a coding bootcamp will help you understand how things work under the hood and communicate clearly with company stakeholders and product users.

“Transitioning from nursing to tech, I wanted to improve everyday technology. Code Platoon introduced me to product management, which resonates more with my skills and interests than software engineering. At Pinterest, I blend problem-solving with collaboration and empathy, qualities I genuinely enjoy exercising in my daily life. I love working with diverse teams to tackle product challenges and create user-friendly solutions.”

Natalie, military spouse and Apprentice Product Manager at Pinterest

6. Solutions Architect

While Product Managers guide what gets built, Solutions Architects create the technical systems to make it happen. They design the structure of complex products, implement the right tools and technologies for the job, and make sure everything works smoothly together. If you enjoy strategic thinking but still want to stay close to the technical side, this role could be a perfect match.

“I chose Solutions work because it’s a perfect marriage of software development and business. Solving complex business problems that have real-world impact is a gratifying experience. Code Platoon helped me understand foundational tech skills, and I’ve learned there’s so much more to tech than raw code.”

Will, Navy Veteran and Solutions Architect at AWS

Take the First Step on Your Path to Tech

There’s no single path to success in tech. You can learn how to code, but it’s just as important to get guidance on where those skills can take you. Whether you’re drawn to leadership, design, analytics, or optimization, Code Platoon’s programs and Career Services can help you turn your technical training into an impactful new career that aligns with your favorite aspects of tech.

Python for Beginners: Your Learning Guide

TLDR: Python is one of the most beginner-friendly and versatile programming languages you can learn. It’s used in everything from web development to data analysis and AI. With free courses, tutorials, and challenges available, it’s never been easier to start learning Python and build the skills you need to launch a career in tech.

Are you new to the world of coding or considering a career change to tech? Python offers the flexibility, ease, and community you need to get started for free.

Why Learn Python?

Python is known for being easy to read and write, which makes it perfect for beginners exploring coding. Here’s what makes Python stand out from other programming languages:

  • Easy to Learn: Python’s syntax is straightforward and reads like plain English, making it accessible for those with no prior coding experience.
  • Widely Used: Python is used in a wide range of fields, including web development, data science, automation, machine learning, and more.
  • In-Demand Skill: Professional software engineers and employers value Python because it’s powerful, versatile, and great for solving real-world problems.

Top Resources for Learning Python

Getting started with Python is simple thanks to a wide range of beginner-friendly resources. From online courses to YouTube tutorials and coding exercises, you’ll find plenty of support and practice.

Take Free Online Python Courses

Online courses are a great way to learn Python at your own pace. Here are some free options that are beginner-friendly and great prep if you’re considering a coding bootcamp:

  1. Intro to Coding (Code Platoon): This free, self-paced course is designed with beginners in mind. You’ll get over seven hours of interactive instruction covering Python basics with coding exercises to start practicing right away. Code Platoon also offers a live, online version three times per year.
  2. Learn Python (Codecademy): Learn Python with 23 hours of hands-on lessons covering Python syntax, functions, loops, and more.
  3. Python for Everybody (Coursera / University of Michigan): Introduces Python with a focus on data handling and is especially well-suited for beginners interested in data science.

Follow Along with Python Tutorials on YouTube

YouTube is another powerful (and free) way to learn Python without the commitment of a full course. Here are some great channels for beginners:

Practice with Python Coding Exercises

Practice is key when learning to code. Coding challenges are a great way to sharpen your skills and reinforce what you’ve learned. Some great platforms are:

  • HackerRank: A beginner-friendly collection of Python exercises that walk you through common Python problems and logic challenges.
  • Codewars: Offers Python coding challenges that range from basic to advanced. You can even compare your solutions to others and learn new techniques in a collaborative community.

Python: Your Launchpad to Tech

Python builds a strong foundation for future learning. Whether you want to build apps, analyze data, or automate tasks, Python has you covered. So, start small, practice often, and when you’re ready to go deeper, consider taking the next step with a coding bootcamp like Code Platoon. Bootcamps provide structured training to help you transition into a tech career, equipping you with the hands-on experience needed for a successful tech career.

Why We’re Moving to a “Pay What You Can” Scholarship Model

At Code Platoon, our mission has always been clear: help Veterans, Servicemembers, and military family members launch new careers in tech with as little out-of-pocket cost as possible.

As a nonprofit, everything we do is driven by our mission, including how we handle tuition. That’s why we’re excited to share a big update: we’ve simplified our scholarship program into one clear message—“Pay What You Can.”

Why the Change?

In the past, we offered multiple scholarships with different criteria and funding levels. While those programs helped many students, we realized they could also cause confusion. We kept hearing the same questions: “Am I eligible?” “How much support can I actually get?”

So we decided to make it simpler—and fairer.

With Pay What You Can, every accepted student is eligible for a scholarship. There’s no need to prove financial hardship or fit into a specific scholarship category. Once you’re in, we’ll ask you one simple question: “How much can you reasonably contribute to your tuition?”

That’s it. No minimum payment. No gimmicks. No hidden fees. Just a conversation.

Whatever you can’t cover, our scholarship will fill the gap. And once you’re awarded a scholarship, you’ll have up to a full year to make your contribution, so finances don’t get in the way of your future.

What about VA Benefits?

If you’re eligible for VA benefits like the GI Bill® or VR&E, those can fully cover your tuition at Code Platoon. Our full-time and part-time programs—including remote options—are approved for both. If you choose not to use VA benefits or aren’t eligible, our scholarship model is here to make sure you still have a clear, affordable path.

How is this Possible?

Our scholarships are made possible thanks to the generosity of donors, foundations, and corporate partners who believe in what you bring to the tech world. They know Veterans and military families have the drive, discipline, and problem-solving skills that today’s tech companies need—and they’re investing in your success.

The Goal: More Access. Less Confusion.

This new model gives every student more clarity and confidence as they plan for Code Platoon. It’s easier to understand what kind of financial support is available and how to move forward. It’s all about meeting you where you are and removing the barriers between you and a meaningful new career in tech.

If you’re thinking about applying, do it. You don’t need all the answers right now. Just choose the program that fits your goals, and submit your application. Once you’re accepted, we’ll work with you to finalize your scholarship or VA benefit path and get you moving forward.

It’s that easy.

Built Together: A Father-Daughter Story of Belief, Service, and Impact

When Randy Aires left active duty, he had something many Veterans don’t: a clear path.

“I was fortunate,” he recalls. “I knew I was going to law school. I had a plan, and the confidence to follow it.”

But over the years, as a Navy JAG Corps Reservist and civilian attorney (and, later, a lobbyist), Randy saw just how rare that certainty can be. “Transitioning out of the military isn’t just about employment,” he says. “It’s about finding your footing in a world that doesn’t always make room for your experience.”

That understanding is what drew him to Code Platoon. And today, it’s what keeps him giving.

For Randy, supporting the military-connected community is personal because it’s not just his story anymore. His daughter, Katherine Byrnes, works on Code Platoon’s Career Services team.

“I get to see every day how our students grow – technically, professionally, and personally,” Katherine shares. “They come in looking for direction, and they leave with real skills, real confidence, and real jobs. My dad believes in this mission, and I feel proud to help deliver on it.”

Together, Randy and Katherine represent two sides of the same commitment: building a stronger future for those who served and their families.

“Code Platoon isn’t just teaching people to code,” Randy adds. “They’re helping them build lives. They’re combining tech skills with the professional and personal development employers care about. And now, they’re opening the door even wider by including adult children of Veterans. That’s not just generous. It’s strategic.”

As we celebrate how Code Platoon is “Built Together”—by students, donors, instructors, employers, and families—Randy offers a reminder of why it matters:

“Not everyone knows their next step. But when we invest in someone’s future, we help them build it with clarity, confidence, and purpose.”

Is a Coding Bootcamp Right for You?

Many people are considering jobs in the tech industry, and rather than pursuing traditional computer science degrees, they’re enrolling in coding bootcamps to get there. Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated path into tech careers, but they aren’t for everyone. Before you apply, ask yourself and your coding bootcamp these six questions to determine if a program is the right fit.

6 Questions to Ask Yourself and Your Coding Bootcamp

1. Can You Commit to an Accelerated Learning Experience?

Coding bootcamps are intense. In a full-time program, you’ll spend 10–12 hours a day, five days a week, learning full-stack software engineering at a pace similar to military training. It’s a fast, immersive experience that requires focus, discipline, and determination.

What if you can’t put life on hold?

If you have work, family, or other commitments, a part-time bootcamp might be the better fit. Evening & Weekend Bootcamps cover the same in-demand skills but on a longer timeline. This allows you to balance your responsibilities with transitioning to a tech career.

2. Can You Push Through Challenges?

Immersive coding bootcamps provide you with a learn-by-doing approach in a collaborative environment. You’ll spend hours coding complex projects that simulate real-world work experience. Because of this hands-on approach, some coding bootcamps have demonstrated placement rates comparable to top four-year colleges.

The key to success in a coding bootcamp isn’t talent—it’s resilience. If you’re determined to problem-solve and keep learning, you’ll thrive. If you’re willing to embrace the challenge, ask questions, and keep iterating, you’ll find that every challenge makes you a stronger developer.

3. Do You Work Well with Others?

Tech is a team-driven industry. While movies might show coders working alone in dark rooms, the reality is most software engineers collaborate daily.

At a coding bootcamp, you’ll work on real-world coding challenges with your classmates. You’ll pair program, debug projects, and build real-world software projects like you would in the workplace.

If you enjoy solving problems and working with others, you’ll fit right into a coding bootcamp and the tech industry.

4. Does the Bootcamp Offer Career Services?

The best coding bootcamps don’t just teach you to code. They help you land a job.

When comparing programs, look for:
Strong job placement rates
Apprenticeship or employer partners committed to hiring bootcamp grads
Resume workshops, interview prep, and mentorship from tech professionals

A coding bootcamp is an investment in your future. Make sure the program you choose comes with a strong return.

5. Does the Curriculum Align with Industry Needs?

To land a high-paying tech job, you need real-world skills that employers want. A strong Full-stack Software Engineering bootcamp curriculum should teach:

  • Front-end development: Building great user experiences with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React.js.
  • Back-end development: Storing and managing data with Python, SQL, and databases like PostgreSQL.
  • Agile workflows: Working in sprints and iterating like real software teams.
  • AI and Prompt Engineering: Leveraging AI tools for debugging, automating, and optimizing your work.

Make sure your bootcamp prepares you for the future of tech, not just today’s trends.

6. Does the Bootcamp Set You Up for Success?

Not all bootcamps are created equal. Some programs enroll anyone, whether they’re ready or not. A quality coding bootcamp ensures you’re prepared before you start. Look for a bootcamp that offers pre-work or a prep course. A bootcamp that genuinely cares about your success will help you build a strong foundation before your first day.

Are You Ready for Coding Bootcamp?

Choosing a coding bootcamp is a big decision, and finding the right fit takes careful consideration. A great program will challenge you, prepare you with real-world coding skills, and provide the support and structure needed to help you succeed. 

Take time to research your options, connect with graduates and staff, and make sure the program you choose aligns with your goals, learning style, and career aspirations. No matter where you are in your coding journey, by asking the right questions, you can find a bootcamp that truly supports your transition into a rewarding career in tech.

Kayla Elkin is the Marketing Content Manager at Code Platoon. In this role, she brings skills developed from previous positions in higher education and educational technology. Kayla has degrees in English and Sociology from Clemson University and completed the Study in India Program (SIP) at the University of Hyderabad. Outside work, she enjoys playing video games and Dungeons & Dragons with her friends.

Celebrating 9 Years of Transforming Lives

This year, Code Platoon celebrates nine years of empowering Veterans, military spouses, and now military dependents to transition to tech careers through our immersive coding bootcamps. As we hit this milestone, we’re reflecting on the impact our program has had on the lives and careers of our community.

From alumni and staff to mentors and hiring partners, their stories highlight the heart of our mission: equipping the military community with skills for meaningful careers in technology.

Empowering Individuals to Achieve the Extraordinary

Code Platoon changes lives. Neka Blair, a Whiskey cohort alum and Air Force Veteran, shares:

“I’ve seen a dramatic increase in how I view myself. For so long, I focused on what I couldn’t do. Code Platoon showed me what I can do.”

Before joining Code Platoon, Neka never imagined herself as a software engineer. Today, she thrives at Microsoft. Her story is proof that hard work and community support can unlock limitless potential.

Fostering a Network of Support

The Code Platoon community is more than a network—it’s a family. Will Minshall, a Navy veteran and TANGO cohort graduate, puts it best:

“I’m proud to be part of an alumni network of Veterans. Our shared experiences create a bond that continues the camaraderie and teamwork we had in the military.”

Whether it’s through mentorship, career guidance, or alumni connections, Code Platoon ensures no one walks this journey alone.

Changing Lives and Careers

For many, Code Platoon is a turning point. Jordon West, a Navy Veteran and Juliett cohort graduate, describes it this way:

“This program flipped my life in the best way. Now, I want to help others achieve what I’ve done.”

Jordon’s passion for giving back led him to become an instructor for our Evening and Weekends program, sharing his expertise with the next generation. His story reflects the ripple effect of Code Platoon’s mission—alumni paying it forward to create lasting change.

Bringing Value to Companies

Our hiring partners see firsthand the unique value Veterans and military spouses bring to their teams. Holly Maurizio, VP of People at Cecilian Partners, shares:

“Code Platoon has positively impacted our company culture. It’s not just about hiring talent—it’s about embracing the discipline, dedication, and leadership that Veterans naturally bring.”

These partnerships demonstrate how Code Platoon graduates contribute to a thriving tech workforce.

Building Lifelong Relationships

Mentorship at Code Platoon often leads to incredible outcomes. Don Bora, Partner at Eight Bit Studios and a longtime board member reflects on one such success:

“I mentored Michael Dorsey, a student who went on to start his own company. Today, he serves on the Code Platoon board. Watching him grow has been one of my proudest moments.”

This story illustrates how the bonds formed at Code Platoon extend far beyond the classroom.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate nine years, we’re excited for the future. From integrating advanced technologies like AI into our curriculum to welcoming military dependents, the opportunities ahead are boundless.

“Hearing about Code Platoon’s plans to support more people excites me,” says Neka Blair. “Expanding to include Veterans’ children means even more success stories in the tech world.”

A Heartfelt Thank You

At its core, Code Platoon is about more than coding—it’s about transformation, opportunity, and connection. The stories of our alumni, staff, and partners remind us why we do what we do.

To everyone who’s been part of our mission —students, graduates, mentors, hiring partners, staff, and supporters—thank you for helping make these nine years unforgettable. Here’s to the next chapter of impact, innovation, and growth.

Happy 9th birthday, Code Platoon! 🎉

How VR&E Supports Veterans Transitioning to Tech

For Veterans with service-connected disabilities, the journey to find stable, fulfilling employment can be challenging. But there’s a VA program out there that many don’t know about: Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E). It provides the resources and support needed to transition into a new career. For Navy Veteran and Code Platoon graduate Marion Gordon, VR&E was a game changer. It allowed him to move from a physically demanding healthcare job to a tech career that aligns better with his strengths and well-being.

Marion’s story starts in the Navy, where he served for eight years as a physical therapy tech. “Healthcare was all I knew, so it felt too scary to venture into something new,” he recalls. After leaving the military, he landed a job in a Chicago hospital, working in in-patient physical therapy. But after four years, the chronic joint pain he developed during his service made it impossible to continue in the medical field.

“I knew I needed a career change, but I had no idea VR&E even existed,” Marion admits. “Even though I came out of the military with a disability rating, nobody told me what benefits were available.”

“When I was accepted to Code Platoon, I planned to use VET TEC, but it ran out of funding right before I started. Luckily, a friend told me about VR&E, and I had enough time to start a VR&E application.”

The path to securing VR&E support isn’t always straightforward. After applying, the next step is being assigned a VR&E counselor. But this process can vary significantly based on your location or even the counselor you’re assigned. Marion offers some advice for Veterans preparing for that crucial first interview.

“The most critical step is to come to the interview ready to explain why you need VR&E and how you’ll use it. For mine, I explained ‘My service-connected disability doesn’t support the physical labor necessary for the field that I’m in. I’ve already been accepted to Code Platoon where I can learn Full-stack Software Engineering and be ready for a tech job after 15 weeks.’ Code Platoon was on my counselor’s list of pre-approved training programs, so my plan was accepted.”

In addition to paying for Marion’s tuition, VR&E provided him with a subsistence allowance similar to the GI Bill. When he started experiencing dental pain while searching for a job after Code Platoon, VR&E covered his dental care. Finally, he was offered job search services through the VA.

“Although resume and interviewing support was available through VR&E, my counselor had no experience with coding bootcamps or the tech sector. So I took advantage of Code Platoon’s Career Services instead,” Marion says. “The Career Services team is who helped me get my amazing Software Engineer job in Travelers Engineering Development Program (EDP).”

If Marion could change one thing about the VR&E process, it would be the responsiveness from the counselors: “I’ve heard from others that some counselors are better than others. My counselor was pretty good, but my dental care took a few months to access.”

“For anyone looking into Code Platoon or VR&E, I would say do it 100%. My life has improved so much since I took advantage of these opportunities. It’s the biggest life-changing thing I’ve ever done.”

Marion’s story is a testament to the power of using available support for Veterans to make a meaningful career change. If you’re considering using VR&E for a career change, don’t wait to get started! Learn more about VR&E or hear more of Marion’s story on our Service to Software vodcast on YouTube.

Kayla Elkin is the Marketing Content Specialist at Code Platoon. In this role, she uses her marketing, writing, and editing skills developed from previous higher education and educational technology positions. Kayla has degrees in English and Sociology from Clemson University and completed the Study in India Program (SIP) at the University of Hyderabad. Outside work, she enjoys playing video games and Dungeons & Dragons with her friends.

X-Ray Platoon Final Projects

Representing Code Platoon’s twenty-fourth Full-stack Software Engineering: Immersive cohort, the X-Ray Platoon graduates recently presented their final projects. This time, our graduates applied all of the front-end, back-end, and software project management skills they developed during the program to produce four hands-on capstone projects ranging from an AI-integrated eCommerce site, to an event management platform, and even a mobile game. Join us in this blog as we recognize our graduates’ dedication and celebrate their impressive final projects. 

The first team, Bonsai, developed an ambitious software engineering project including an ecommerce site to buy and sell bonsais, a social platform for the bonsai community to publish and share attributed blog posts, and an AI-powered “Zen Master” chatbot to help users care for their bonsais and even themselves.

“We built our ‘Zen Master’ using Haystack LLM framework pipeline and OpenAI. We used advanced components and imported documents, specific embeddings, and custom prompts,” Dustin, Navy Veteran and X-Ray Platoon graduate, says, “We taught the LLM Bonsai knowledge, Zen, and the real-life history of a legendary samurai to not only provide advice but also to make it respond with the depth and wisdom of a former warrior who has embraced a peaceful path. Zen Master’s unique responses are rooted in history, mindfulness, and tranquility while always bringing the focus back to bonsai.”

Other features implemented by the Bonsai team include mobile optimization and integration with APIs like Google Maps, PayPal, and OpenWeather to improve their users’ experiences while buying, selling, and caring for their bonsais. Check out their final project below!

The next team built Foundations of Programming (FOP), a class management tool for Code Platoon students and instructors. Features of their application include unique student and instructor course creation, question adding, and a Visual Studio Code Integrated Development Environment directly in the application. 

FOP uses React.js, Tailwind CSS, and Daisy UI on the front end. A Django REST framework makes up the back end. Programming languages used include JavaScript, Python, and CSS.

To facilitate a clean code base and prevent merge conflicts during their project, the team built a GitHub repository and internal review system with a feature branch based development cycle: “Whenever someone came up with a new idea, they would create a branch, do their work, then submit it through a pull request,” Navy Veteran and FOP team member Brandon says. “The request would be under review to a minimum of two reviewers before we would merge it to main.”

The Event Master team created a comprehensive full-stack web application for users to discover and organize events. Their users can search for events via keyword and location-based searches. Event organizers can generate links to ticket purchases and venue information directly in the application via the Ticketmaster API. Users can also see all of the events they’re attending and organizing on their user profiles, which are saved to Event Master via a PostgreSQL relational database management system.

All of this was created by a team of three transitioning Active Duty graduates who completed X-Ray Platoon via the SkillBridge program

“We had some difficulties managing our small team size, different time zones from Hawaii to EST, and two-week time frame to create Event Master,” Mickey, a transitioning Soldier and X-Ray Platoon graduate, shares. “Organizing our goals and making sure we were on the same page was essential. We took our daily stand-up and stand-down meetings seriously, so we knew our goals and who was working on what parts of the application.”

The last project in our showcase is Deal or Dragon, a mobile game with an AI “battle” system. Users put their creative writing skills to the test by convincing characters powered by the team’s AI assistant to purchase an item in a limited number of turns.

“I trained the AI bosses to adapt to player actions, ensuring that every interaction felt unique and challenging,” Erika, a military spouse, says. “The AI assistant has a data set of example conversations and decision-making scenarios. It includes a variety of player actions like persuasion attempts, logical arguments, or even emotional appeals and the assistant learns how to handle each of them differently.”

“Working on this project was an incredible team experience. Everyone collaborated, not just on isolated components but on every aspect of the game. We had to work very closely to make sure everything fit together smoothly. Every single one of the pages and parts of the databases has code from every member of the team. It brought its challenges but also enriched the project.”

Code Platoon Graduate Outcomes 2024

Code Platoon is committed to supporting Veterans, Servicemembers, and military families as they transition into tech careers. Over the past year, we’ve seen a slight dip in our six-month and one-year employment rates. Still, our graduates continue to leverage their skills and resilience to secure software engineering roles with a median starting salary of $80,000.

Our graduates’ continued success speaks volumes about the strength of our approach.  Our flexible learning options and dedicated support have helped Veterans and their families transition smoothly into new careers.

“Code Platoon continues to be the go-to path for Veterans and military spouses to break into tech,” Rod Levy, Executive Director of Code Platoon, says. “We’re always evolving our curriculum and career services to keep pace with the ever-changing tech landscape, ensuring our graduates are ready to hit the ground running.”

Code Platoon Graduate Outcomes 2024

  • In 2024, 61% of Code Platoon graduates secured jobs in tech within six months of completing the program, with a median starting salary of $80,000. 
  • One year after graduation, that placement rate increases to 72%
  • The median salary jumps to $102,000 after two years in the industry. 
  • Code Platoon continues to be recognized as a top coding bootcamp by Course Report and SwitchUp. This year, we also earned new designations as the #1 Best Coding Bootcamp of 2024 by College Consensus and a Military Friendly School by VIQTORY.

In-Demand Skills Employers Seek

Code Platoon graduates excel in tech because they master the skills employers demand. Our Full-Stack Software Engineering curriculum covers essential programming languages like Python and JavaScript, along with popular tools such as Docker, React, and PostgreSQL. This year, we added artificial intelligence training to our core curriculum, equipping students with one of the hottest skills in software engineering today. Our specialized DevOps and Cloud Engineering training also dives into continuous integration, configuration management, and automation—ensuring graduates can make an immediate impact in their new roles.

“In my seven years of tech experience, practical knowledge is the biggest asset. Nobody I’ve worked with has treated me differently because I don’t have a degree.” James, an Army National Guard Veteran and Technical Team Lead at Procore Technologies says.

Navigating the Job Market with Confidence

While the tech industry has seen shifts and challenges, Code Platoon graduates continue to stand out because of their unique combination of in-demand technical skills and lived experience from their military backgrounds, including discipline, leadership, and problem-solving. This combination continues to make them highly sought after by our corporate and hiring partners, including Caesars Digital, Travelers Insurance, and Cecilian Partners.

As the tech landscape evolves, our comprehensive Career Services help graduates take on the job search with a clear strategy and well-prepared materials. Our dedicated Career Services team provides personalized support, including 1-on-1 mentorship, resume workshops, LinkedIn optimization, and mock interviews, preparing our graduates to present their military-to-tech transition stories to future employers.

“Code Platoon prepared me for the job market better than a degree,” Megan, a Navy Veteran and Software Engineer at DRW, says. “The program gave me a good sense of communication skills and how to explain my work experience.” 

Companies that Hire Code Platoon Grads