Develop Future Aerospace Software Talent with Codecraft Works’ VEST

Codecraft Works helps to address the critical shortage of qualified software engineers in the aerospace and defense sector.

The VEST program equips individuals with the essential skills and experience needed to thrive in entry-level software engineering roles within the aerospace and defense industry.

Benefits for Talent Acquisition and Workforce Development Teams include:

• Pre-trained, job-ready talent pool: Gain access to a diverse pool of qualified candidates, reducing time to hire and improving your talent pipeline.
• Reduced training costs: Eliminate the need for extensive in-house training programs.
• Enhanced diversity and inclusion: Attract and train a diverse workforce, fostering a more inclusive work environment.
• Subject Matter Expert (SME) access: Interact with candidates throughout the program and receive learning reports, ensuring a good fit for your open positions.

Case Study: VEST Program Bridges the Gap in Aerospace & Defense Workforce

Challenge: The aerospace and defense sector faces a critical shortage of qualified software engineers, driven by factors like:

• Demand growth: 7% projected job growth in the next decade, compared to the national average of 5%.
• Retiring workforce: 25% of the nation’s workforce is baby boomers nearing retirement.
• Skills gap and location barriers: Difficulty attracting and retaining skilled talent.

Codecraft Works developed the Software Engineering Virtual Employment Software Training (VEST) program in 2023 with support from the National Science Foundation and aerospace and defense industry engineering SMEs. Through a 16-week online training program, Codecraft Works equips participants with industry-aligned skills like critical thinking, coding in relevant languages (Python & C++), and software development knowledge, preparing them for entry-level positions and opening doors to meaningful careers with top aerospace and defense employers.

Summary of VEST Program Skills Assessment Surveys

Overall - Participants reported significant gains in all 26 learning objectives, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in teaching software programming languages, computer science concepts, and related skills.

Key findings from the first year

Strongest gains:

• Automation of computer fleets (105%)
• Reading/writing different file types (105%)
• Creating a build system and firmware (192%)
• Programming and debugging microcontrollers (209%)

High gains in core programming skills:

• Python syntax (32%)
• Variables (17%)
• Conditionals (26%)
• Real-world problem solving (81%)
• Object-oriented programming (41%)
• Test-driven development (77%)
• Unit testing (54%)
• Software Development Cycle (60%)
• Significant improvements in communication and troubleshooting:
• Communicating effectively about Python (69%)
• Troubleshooting complex problems (50%)

Confidence boost in advanced topics:

• C++ programming (165%)
• C++ compilation and debugging (156%, 150%)
• Embedded software development (128%)
• Software configuration management (157%)

VEST Delivers: A Skilled Workforce and Increased Confidence

The VEST program’s success goes beyond equipping participants with valuable programming skills. A remarkable 91% hire rate demonstrates the program’s effectiveness in placing graduates in jobs within the aerospace and defense sector. This success is further amplified by the program’s ability to cater to diverse learning styles and interests, ensuring participants grasp both introductory and advanced topics.

Moreover, VEST fosters valuable partnerships with leading organizations like Northrop Grumman and CareerSource Brevard, highlighting its industry relevance and ability to bridge the gap between education and employment. Perhaps most importantly, participants report increased confidence in applying their skills to real-world problems, indicating the program goes beyond technical development and fosters valuable leadership traits, ultimately delivering a highly skilled and confident workforce for its partners.

VEST can be tailored for various participants, including:

• Young people and adults finishing high school
• Vocational training/pre-apprenticeship graduates
• Veterans or individuals seeking career changes

Individuals Seeking to Upskill or Enter the Market

• Launch your career in aerospace software engineering: Gain the skills and experience needed to land your dream job in a high-demand field.
• Learn from experienced instructors: Benefit from the guidance of industry professionals who will equip you for success.
• Gain hands-on experience: Apply your learnings through real-world projects and simulations.
• Network with industry professionals: Connect with other aspiring and accomplished software engineers within the aerospace sector.
• Potential for job placement with partner companies: Increase your chances of securing a position with a leading aerospace and defense company upon graduation.