Bootcamp, Degree, or Self-Taught? Different journeys into tech

There’s no single path into tech. But which one makes the most sense for you?

In this panel, Le Wagon alumni share their real-life journeys: one used a bootcamp to deepen their knowledge during a gap semester, and one leveraged it to get into a Master’s program.

Whether you're debating formal education, structured learning, or teaching yourself, this honest conversation will help you understand how a bootcamp can support, replace, or complement your journey into tech.

Meet our alumni

Andrew Forbes, Data Scientist at Bell
Andrew is a data scientist at Bell, where he builds AI tools that save time, solve messy problems, and drive digital transformation. He started his career in music before pivoting into tech through Le Wagon’s Data Science bootcamp. He approaches business like music—mixing creativity with precision to deliver smart, impactful solutions. Andrew thrives on solving puzzles, leading teams, and turning ambitious ideas into real results.

Nilsu Duran, Software Engineer at Deutsche Bank
Nilsu is a software engineer at Deutsche Bank in New York with nearly two years of experience developing robust web applications and Java Spring Boot solutions. A recent graduate of the University of Rochester, she holds a B.S. in Computer Science and a B.A. in Psychology. She completed Le Wagon Montréal’s Web Development Bootcamp in March 2023. With her multidisciplinary background, Nilsu brings a unique blend of technical expertise and human-centered design thinking to every project she takes on.