Smoothstack reviews about "training"

53% positive business outlook

Reviews by job title

47 reviews
4.0
Dec 1, 2021

Good way into the industry

Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Good way into the software industry Paid training Big name clients Training on up to date tech/stacks

Cons

2 year contract Lower wage than standard software engineering role (to pay for training)

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
Sep 22, 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

There are zero 'office politics'. Everyone is hardworking, friendly, transparent, and mission focused. The executive team really cares about all the employees and it shows throughout the company culture. The training technical teammates receive is highly regarded by our clients.

Cons

Covid has limited travel and in person work. I have not been able to get to know team members outside of my core team very well.

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Smoothstack Response
5y
We can't wait to meet all of our new team members in person. We appreciate your review!
5.0
Aug 4, 2021
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Merit based recruitment, thorough and hands-on training, great work culture and community, well adapted for remote work (with covid concern), management is very receptive and works with you.

Cons

Work can be difficult and demanding, entry period can be difficult, there is a lot to learn in their training program

3.0
Oct 18, 2020

Worth I guess

Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great training. Good to get your foot in the software world

Cons

Don't share pertinent information with trainies. While they seem to try to do thier best, the unwilling to openly share info about your placement can be frustrating.

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Smoothstack Response
5y
Thank you for your review. We are happy to have been apart of your professional journey. We want to always communicate and apologize for any frustration a lack of communication may have caused. We encourage you to reach out to HR and/or any of the Directors and we will address your concerns asap.
5.0
Aug 15, 2021
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

You will learn a lot of technologies you might or might not be aware of that are currently used in the field. They have adapted well to remote work for covid and the training gets easier as the weeks progress

Cons

Rigorous start and funnel type process. Overall will help you zone your skills as a developer and get you into the field.

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Smoothstack Response
4y
Thank you for the review. Smoothstack is continuing to expand our remote positions.
5.0
Oct 12, 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Training on modern technologies Paid while getting trained Large amount of clients Accommodating

Cons

Must agree to 2 year contract

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Smoothstack Response
5y
Smoothstack does require a 2-year commitment before investing in the training and professional of new employees. We take a lot of pride in making sure our employees-in-training are prepared for every step of the process. Thank you for your review.
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