Moments that matter: From Apprentice to Software Engineer - Finding passion and purpose at CGI

Chloe Gallacher joined CGI as a school leaver with limited experience and knowledge of tech. Seven years on, with CGI’s support, she’s gained multiple uni degrees and industry certifications, years of actual work experience and an awesome career in software engineering!

If you’re a female student interested in a career in engineering, have confidence in what you bring to the table! We all have valuable skills and we’re all entitled to contribute to discussions.

In my seven years at CGI, I’ve learned how important this mindset is. I’ve had such a great journey here, going from school leaver with limited knowledge, to uni graduate with seven years of work experience under my belt.

I’ve been able to grow my skills from an apprentice to software engineer, build a career I love and attend university and complete industry recognised certifications while working at the same time – all thanks to the continuous support and guidance I have received from CGI.

My CGI story

CGI is a great place to grow a career at any stage. You have the option of gaining experience across different sectors and role types, which is brilliant.

I joined the company on a modern apprenticeship. I liked the idea of being able to ‘earn and learn’, as I’m the kind of person who works and learns better by being hands-on. After completing the apprenticeship, I joined their graduate apprenticeship program. During the program, I completed a BSc Software Development for Business degree while being employed full-time by CGI. I spent four days a week working and one day a week at uni developing my knowledge.

Then, after graduating, I decided I wanted to pursue a specialism in security. Again, CGI was very encouraging, enabling me to go back to university for my MSc Cyber Security course. Both my project and the wider team supported me to ensure I could balance work and uni life.

CGI further supported me by providing extended study leave while I finished my dissertations. It was greatly appreciated as I was able to give my all to my final university submissions and focus solely on one project for that limited time.

My exciting project

One of my most exciting projects at CGI has been working on the software systems for a cutting-edge radio telescope that could transform our understanding of the universe and deliver benefits to society through global collaboration and innovation.

This is particularly interesting for me, not only because of the project itself, but the opportunities it has provided to travel the world, expand my knowledge and strengthen my connections across the wider project teams. I’m helping the client develop a complex system and developing my skill set and career at the same time.