Stories from the Hackery

NashviIIe Software School
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Stories from the Hackery

Find out what it takes to start a career in software development, data analytics, data science, or UI/UX design from those who made the leap. Hear from musicians, veterans, single-moms, teachers, bartenders, postdocs, warehouse workers, and more - all graduates of Nashville Software School (NSS) - as they discuss their transition to tech and their capstone projects presented at Demo Day. Founded in 2012, NSS is a flourishing community of over one thousand alumni, active students, and a team of dedicated instructors all working together to grow and learn their craft. As a non-profit, NSS is committed to growing diversity in tech by creating opportunities for under-represented groups in these fields. Learn more at nashvillesoftwareschool.com.

  1. Data-driven Future: AI, Engineering, and Continuous Learning | Stories From the Hackery

    3D AGO

    Data-driven Future: AI, Engineering, and Continuous Learning | Stories From the Hackery

    In this episode of Stories from the Hackery, John Wark, founder and CEO of Nashville Software School, talks with Charlie Apigian, a well-known figure in Nashville's tech community with a significant academic background. Charlie discusses his journey from academia to consulting, the importance of bridging the gap between education and real-world application, and how his company, Data Inspire, integrates eager new coders into meaningful projects. The episode dives into the evolving roles in tech, particularly data engineering, and the impact of generative AI. Charlie also emphasizes the importance of teamwork, community building, and continuous learning in the fast-paced tech world. 00:00 Introduction to Stories from the Hackery 01:51 Meet Charlie Apigian: From Detroit to Data Science 04:13 The Value of Skills 05:39 NSS Success Story: From Musician to Developer 11:22 The Role of AI in Accelerating Projects 23:52 The Importance of Data Engineering 27:57 Evolution of Data Roles 29:11 Challenges in Data Engineering 29:37 Importance of Reliable Data 31:24 Complex Data Architectures 34:30 Learning and Adapting in Tech 37:33 Teamwork and Project Management 43:20 Community and Future of AI 46:01 Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts Links from the show: Nashville Software School: https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com Data Inspire: https://datainspire.co/ Data Science Nashville Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/data-science-nashville/ LBMC: https://www.lbmc.com/ Belmont University: https://belmont.edu Middle Tennessee State University: https://datascience.mtsu.edu/ Nashville Technology Council: https://technologycouncil.com/

    51 min
  2. Leveraging AI to Build a SaaS Application with Jordan Rosas | Stories From The Hackery

    MAR 11

    Leveraging AI to Build a SaaS Application with Jordan Rosas | Stories From The Hackery

    In this episode of Stories from the Hackery, we hear from Jordan Rosas, a graduate of Nashville Software School's Web Development Cohort 29. Jordan shares his journey from working at an Amazon warehouse to becoming a Software Engineer and building SocialWaive, a social media management application. Jordan shares insights into his career progression, the challenges of creating a social media management tool, and how he leverages various AI technologies including generative AI, machine learning, and NLP. He discusses using tools like GitHub Copilot and ChatGPT in both his professional and side projects, emphasizing the importance of problem-solving skills, building for real users, and the evolving nature of tech roles. Jordan also touches on the business aspects of developing a product and offers advice for newcomers to the tech industry. 00:00 Introduction to Stories from the Hackery 00:38 Meet Jordan Rosas: From an Amazon warehouse to Software Engineer 04:22 Jordan's Side Project: Building SocialWaive 06:02 Using Generative AI in Development 11:38 Challenges and Benefits of AI Tools 19:02 Learning and Implementing Machine Learning 24:18 Exploring AI Capabilities for SocialWaive 29:11 The Importance of Prompt Engineering 38:30 Lessons Learned from Building a SaaS Product 41:41 Advice for Aspiring Tech Professionals 44:01 Closing Thoughts Links from the show: Nashville Software School: https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com How are NSS Alumni Using Generative AI Tools on the Job (Survey 2024): https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/2024/06/26/how-are-nss-alumni-using-generative-ai-tools-on-the-job SocialWaive: https://www.socialwaive.com/ GitHub CoPilot: https://github.com/features/copilot Hugging Face: https://huggingface.co/ “The End of Programming as We Know It” by Tim O’Reilly: https://www.oreilly.com/radar/the-end-of-programming-as-we-know-it/

    47 min

  3. JAN 16

    Prompt Engineering: Insights from a Software Developer | Stories From The Hackery

    In this episode of Stories from the Hackery, we talk to Ryan Bishop, a Nashville Software School (NSS) graduate, about his journey into software development and his experiences with generative AI. Ryan shares how prompt engineering has become a critical part of his work, discussing its applications in both coding and management. He provides insightful advice for new developers and emphasizes the importance of keeping a growth mindset. Tune in to learn how generative AI tools like ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot are reshaping the way developers work, and how Ryan has integrated these tools into his daily workflow. 01:33 Meet Ryan Bishop: From Self-Learner to Software Developer 06:18 Prompt Engineering and Contextual Use 12:20 Use Cases for Generative AI 24:53 Coding with AI: Benefits and Challenges 30:52 Learning to Write Prompts 33:01 Navigating the Overwhelming World of AI Resources 35:14 Teaching Generative AI to Beginners 42:11 Generative AI as a Learning Buddy 49:24 The Influence of Christopher Alexander 57:29 Rediscovering Art with Technology 01:00:38 Final Thoughts Links from the show: Nashville Software School: https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com How are NSS Alumni Using Generative AI Tools on the Job (Survey 2024): https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/2024/06/26/how-are-nss-alumni-using-generative-ai-tools-on-the-job A Pattern Language - Christopher Alexander: https://a.co/d/9g7vSp8 Telehack.org - https://telehack.org

    1h 3m
  4. NSS Alumni Unlock Generative AI's Coding Potential | Stories From The Hackery

    JAN 8

    NSS Alumni Unlock Generative AI's Coding Potential | Stories From The Hackery

    In this episode of Stories From The Hackery, we chat with Spencer Sharpe and Jack Parsons, two NSS graduates and lead software developers. We catch up on their journeys of transitioning from music to tech and explore the impact and utilization of generative AI tools in their current roles. They also share their insights on the evolving landscape of software development. Listen in for their advice on leveraging AI tools, maintaining code quality, and shaping a career in tech today. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Introduction to Stories from the Hackery 00:37 Meet the Guests: Spencer Sharpe and Jack Parsons 02:34 Musical Backgrounds and Career Shifts 9:52 Generative AI Tools and Productivity 17:31 Generative AI for Unit Testing 19:21 Quality and Context in AI-Generated Code 29:12 AI in Code Review 29:29 The Required Human Element 31:53 Training and Assessing Junior Developers 37:52 Resources for Learning to Use Generative AI 42:18 Advice for Aspiring Tech Professionals 44:06 The Future of Software Engineering 50:33 Technology Guilty Pleasures 52:19 Final Thoughts Links from the show: Nashville Software School: https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com How are NSS Alumni Using Generative AI Tools on the Job (Survey 2024): https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/2024/06/26/how-are-nss-alumni-using-generative-ai-tools-on-the-job Ethan Mollick: 15 times to Use AI and 5 Not to https://www.oneusefulthing.org/p/15-times-to-use-ai-and-5-not-to Prompt Engineering LLMs by John Berryman and Albert Ziegler https://www.amazon.com/Prompt-Engineering-LLMs-Model-Based-Applications/dp/1098156153/

    56 min
  5. Using Generative AI on the Job For Learning | Stories From The Hackery

    11/05/2024

    Using Generative AI on the Job For Learning | Stories From The Hackery

    In this episode of Stories from the Hackery, John Work, founder and CEO of Nashville Software School, sits down with NSS graduates Pemberton Heath and Rob Schulteis to discuss their careers post-NSS. They share insights on how they have integrated generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude into their daily work routines, focusing on generative AI as a learning and productivity aid. The conversation also delves into the evolving skills needed for tech careers and the potential pitfalls of relying too heavily on generative AI for learning when you’re first starting out. Tune in to hear real-world applications and thoughtful reflections on the impact of generative AI on professional growth and learning in the tech industry. Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Stories from the Hackery 00:33 Meet our Guests: Pemberton Heath and Rob Schulteis 02:23 Pemberton Heath's Journey to Full Stack Development 06:39 Rob Schulteis' Path from the Music Industry to Data Analytics 14:00 Using Generative AI Tools for Learning 33:21 Prompt Engineering and Effective Generative AI Use 38:25 Adding A Human Touch & Generative AI's Infinite Patience 42:00 A Tool To Fight Imposter Syndrome 43:45 Using Generative AI to Write Code 47:18 Challenges of Generative AI in Learning Environments 51:06 Understanding Codebases with Generative AI 58:52 The Evolving Role of Developers 01:05:04 Integrating Generative AI in Education 01:18:36 Final Thoughts Links from the show: Nashville Software School: https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com How are NSS Alumni Using Generative AI Tools on the Job (Survey 2024): https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/2024/06/26/how-are-nss-alumni-using-generative-ai-tools-on-the-job The Effects of Generative AI on High Skilled Work: Evidence from Three Field Experiments with Software Developers: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4945566 Can GenAI Actually Improve Developer Productivity?: https://resources.uplevelteam.com/gen-ai-for-coding The Impact of Large Language Models on Programming Education and Student Learning Outcomes: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/14/10/4115 Coding on Copilot: 2023 Data Suggests Downward Pressure on Code Quality: https://www.gitclear.com/coding_on_copilot_data_shows_ais_downward_pressure_on_code_quality Onboarding to a 'legacy' codebase with the help of AI: https://martinfowler.com/articles/exploring-gen-ai.html#memo-09

    1h 21m
  6. Generative AI's Impact On Software Development Careers

    10/24/2024

    Generative AI's Impact On Software Development Careers

    In this episode of Stories from the Hackery, we catch up with Brandon Valentine, a founding board member at NSS and a lifelong software developer. Brandon departed GitHub this spring after five years, where he spent most of his time leading a team that collaborated with some of the largest development shops in the world. Brandon shares his insights from his front-row seat on how generative AI is, or is not, shaping the careers of software developers and the job market. 00:00 Introduction to Stories from the Hackery 00:35 Meet Brandon Valentine 10:33 Generative AI and the Job Market 34:35 Generative AI: Opportunities and Risks 44:36 Upskilling the Workforce: The Role of AI 47:28 Training the Next Generation of Developers 52:21 The Evolution of Software Development Roles 01:07:08 Personal Reflections and Recommendations 01:13:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links: Nashville Software School: https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com Brandon Valentine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonvalentine/ Goldman Sachs - GenAI: Too much spend, too little benefit?: https://www.goldmansachs.com/insights/top-of-mind/gen-ai-too-much-spend-too-little-benefit

    1h 16m
  7. User Experience Design: Lessons from Two Decades in UI & UX | Stories from the Hackery

    08/20/2024

    User Experience Design: Lessons from Two Decades in UI & UX | Stories from the Hackery

    Explore UI & UX design with Susan Culkin, a senior product designer and instructor at Nashville Software School. In this episode of Stories from the Hackery, Susan shares insights on the evolving field of user experience design, the importance of collaboration between designers and developers, and how she's giving back to the tech community through teaching and philanthropy. Show Notes: Introduction: 00:00 Susan's Journey to Nashville: 04:38 Defining UI and UX Design: 07:22 Common Misconceptions about UI & UX: 12:20 Collaboration Between Designers and Developers: 15:53 Staying Current in UI & UX Design: 24:00 Impact of Generative AI on UI & UX: 27:37 Teaching UI & UX at NSS: 32:10 Student Backgrounds at NSS: 39:32 Supporting NSS and Giving Back: 43:03 Nashville Diaper Connection: 46:07 Glass Blowing Passion: 49:19 Conclusion: 52:20 Links from the show: Nashville Software School: https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com Susan Culkin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanculkin/ Nashville Diaper Connection: https://www.nashvillediaperconnection.org/ Wilmington Trust: https://www.wilmingtontrust.com/ Figma Config Conference: https://config.figma.com/ Corning Museum of Glass: https://home.cmog.org/ Chartres Cathedral Stained Glass: https://www.cathedrale-chartres.org/en/cathedrale/monument/the-stained-glass-windows/

    53 min

  8. 05/22/2024

    NSS Alumni Spotlight - Dibran Rexhepi | Stories From The Hackery

    In this episode of Stories from The Hackery we catch up with Data Science 3 alumni Dibran Rexhepi, a former biology graduate turned data engineer and now instructor for the Part-time Analytics program at Nashville Software School. From his humble beginnings in a chemistry lab to discovering the world of programming through a bioinformatics class, our guest shares how he found his passion for coding. Tune in as Dibran reflects on his experience at Nashville Software School, the challenges he faced, the lessons learned, and how he now gives back by teaching others. Are you or someone you know ready to begin your NSS Journey? Visit our website to learn more about our upcoming programs and apply today! https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/calendar/upcoming-programs/ Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 01:54 - Transition to Tech 03:30 - Discovering Nashville Software School 05:03 - Embracing Challenges 06:46 - Teaching and Giving Back 07:45 - Thriving Amidst Challenges 09:05 - Mentoring and Growth 11:24 - Advice for Aspiring Developers 12:34 - Insights from Industry Experience 15:30 - Reflecting on NSS Experience

    18 min
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    About

    Find out what it takes to start a career in software development, data analytics, data science, or UI/UX design from those who made the leap. Hear from musicians, veterans, single-moms, teachers, bartenders, postdocs, warehouse workers, and more - all graduates of Nashville Software School (NSS) - as they discuss their transition to tech and their capstone projects presented at Demo Day. Founded in 2012, NSS is a flourishing community of over one thousand alumni, active students, and a team of dedicated instructors all working together to grow and learn their craft. As a non-profit, NSS is committed to growing diversity in tech by creating opportunities for under-represented groups in these fields. Learn more at nashvillesoftwareschool.com.

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