Smoothstack reviews about "environment"

53% positive business outlook

Reviews by job title

11 reviews
2.0
Jun 27, 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

-Friendly work environment. -Flexible training schedule.

Cons

-Unstructured training schedule. We were literally given PowerPoint presentations twice a week (for approximately 1 hour each session) and then asked to do our own research to complete our assignments/projects. We were randomly called in for training throughout the week (no course agenda or schedule). -Dishonestly from recruiters. I was promised accommodations from my recruiter that the Smoothstack management had no recollection of until the last week of training. -They are not upfront about the company's "business model". They did not mention in the beginning that you would still need to interview with their so-called "established pipeline of clients". I interviewed with a variety of clients that had no recollection of Smoothstack. -It took almost a year to get placed with a client after the training was over. That meant getting paid minimum wage for an entire year as I waited for opportunities to interview. I’d like to also clarify that every interview went well. The feedback was always good. The hiring manager would notify us, stating that we got accepted for a position, and then “something” would always happen a week later. It was always the same excuse; either the contract was not ready or funding for our position wasn’t available yet.

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Smoothstack Response
5y
Smoothstack is a Registered Apprenticeship Program with the Department of Labor. It is a full-time job paired with paid training, mentorship and professional development opportunities. The Apprenticeship pathway creates opportunity for entry-mid level tech jobs that may not otherwise be open without years more experience. Smoothstack's training is not classroom style. We expect our employees-in-training to be self starters. The job is not for everyone. We only select those with the highest aptitude. In order to be successful our apprentices must be ambitious to learn and able to be successful in unchartered environments. We wish you the best of luck in your new adventure. If you would like to talk to someone in HR about your experience pease reach out anytime. Thank you for the review.
5.0
Jul 20, 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

I found Smoothstack when all doors were closed to me. I had graduated with a CS degree and couldn't find a job for about a year and a half after graduation and was driving a Uber to make ends meet. I had almost given up on a career in IT when I heard about this program. Initially, I did not apply as I thought it was a Bootcamp and I would have to pay to participate. It was only later when I researched more that I found that it was merit-based. You get paid to learn and this leads to a full-time job in 3 months. I was in the Java Dev Ops program and the training was intense as they simulated an agile environment where I was able to pick up coding skills while being exposed to a real-time project. It's a very collaborative environment but to excel you also need to be driven and willing to put int the hard work. I would strongly recommend both the program and the organization! It's a great place to learn and build your career!

Cons

None to highlight as of today

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Smoothstack Response
5y
Smoothstack's hiring methodology is based on merit versus systemic bias. We select those with the highest aptitude and train to fit the job requirement. We are happy to be apart of your journey. Please let the HR team know if there is anything we can do to support you.
5.0
Jul 23, 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

- Experienced trainers who will guide your learning - Learn the latest technologies - Get agile experience - Interview preparation (very valuable) - Great working environment (I started pre-COVID) - Great clients

Cons

- Lots of work but it helps you grow - Trainers can be busy sometimes

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Smoothstack Response
5y
Thank you for your review. We are happy to offer career boosting jobs with in-house training. It sounds like you are having a great experience! If you ever feel you are not getting the mentorship or training support necessary please contact Smoothstack HR team and we will be happy to support you.
5.0
Mar 20, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

- The mission of helping unemployed or underemployed find high paying technology jobs - Great working environment in terms of people I work with from top to bottom both in and outside of my department - Open to trying new things and hearing new ideas - Ability to make decisions quickly and move fast to take advantage of opportunities

Cons

- Cost of medical insurance seems to be rising, but I think that is going to be happening at just about every company.

5.0
Dec 30, 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Friendly, supportive work environment. Good place to learn new skills and grow professionally.

Cons

None that I can think of

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Smoothstack Response
5y
Thank you for the solid review.
5.0
Mar 28, 2025

Fantastic Launchpad for a Successful Tech Career

Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Hands-On Training: Smoothstack provides immersive, in-depth training that really prepares you for real-world projects. Supportive Environment: The team fosters collaboration and mentorship, making it easier to learn and grow. Career Growth Opportunities: After the initial training phase, the company helps place you on engaging projects, giving you a chance to rapidly build your portfolio. Strong Community: There is a sense of camaraderie and teamwork that helps keep you motivated and eager to learn.

Cons

Fast-Paced Learning Curve: The training can be intense, so it might feel overwhelming at first if you’re not used to a rigorous schedule. Location Flexibility: Depending on client locations, you may need to be open to relocating or traveling. This can be a challenge for those seeking more predictable schedules.

5.0
Jul 29, 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

-The training is very hands-on and the trainers are always around to help you out. -They focus on all the aspects of training you to become a software engineer from the languages they teach and what a job expects from your work -All the coworkers have been very welcoming -Overall great environment for an entry level software engineer as you work with many other people going for the same goal.

Cons

-None I can think of at the moment

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Smoothstack Response
5y
Thank you for your review. We have a great Software Engineering team and are happy you are apart of our growth this year!
5.0
Dec 30, 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Lots of pros: relaxed work environment where everyone’s voice is heard, Strong supportive, innovative leadership team in place that is truly passionate about its mission of hiring a diverse under represented talent pipeline and helping them shine in the field. Employee Trainers are senior industry professionals that are passionate about coaching/ mentoring and is top notch! Competitive Compensation & Great benefits! Love helping get passionate candidates into the field and seeing them grow professionally!

Cons

Because of the continual growth there have been lots of moving parts and pivoting since starting making it tough to build momentum!

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Smoothstack Response
5y
We are happy to have you on the Recruitment Team. December was a slow month for recruiting; we are thrilled to be full steam ahead for 2021! #codeforexcellence
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