Before tech ever crossed my mind, I was a professional athlete. I spent years pushing my limits on the field, but as my career neared its end, I began looking toward the future—one where I could thrive in a completely different arena: technology.
A Chance Encounter That Changed Everything
I was enrolled in an online cybersecurity degree at WGU and working as an Uber driver when fate stepped in. One day, I picked up a JP Morgan executive, and during our conversation, I told him about my dream of getting into tech and exploring apprenticeships. That conversation led to something I couldn’t have imagined—he connected me to Revature. Initially, my application was rejected, but a few days later, thanks to that executive’s influence, I received a call from a VP. Revature was now ready to accept me. That was the moment everything shifted.
Thrown into the Fire—And Rising
When I joined Revature, I had zero software engineering experience. I was placed directly into the paid portion of the program, which meant full immersion from day one. No easing in. It was rigorous, intense, and unlike anything I’d ever done before. Picture this: three to five months packed with two to three years’ worth of material. We had eight-hour training days, mock interviews every week, and a fast-paced environment that demanded constant performance.
But that pressure built something in me. It built skill, discipline, and most importantly—confidence. The training covered full-stack development, including Java, JavaScript, JDBC, SQL, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and the entire Spring framework. We weren’t just learning theory—we were implementing what we learned through real projects, team-based assignments, and live presentations in front of major clients like JPMorgan Chase.
Real Skills. Real Support. Real Outcomes.
What stood out most about Revature’s program wasn’t just the content. It was the environment. Trainers were approachable, always willing to spend extra time, and the cohort culture was collaborative. We created Discord channels, shared flashcards, hosted group screen shares—it was a community of learners pushing each other to succeed.
This kind of preparation directly translated into the work environment. I realized that in tech, no one knows everything—but knowing how to learn and collaborate is invaluable. And that’s exactly what Revature taught me.
From Contract to Career
After completing the program, I was offered a contract position as a full-stack developer with JPMorgan Chase in Tampa. At first, I focused on front-end development and code hygiene—writing tests, understanding the codebase, and adjusting to enterprise-level systems. Eventually, I was converted to a full-time employee and relocated to the JP Morgan office in Plano, Texas.
The transition was seamless, and the support didn’t end after training. Revature made sure I had the resources to thrive both as a contractor and a full-time employee.
Why I Chose Tech—and Why It Was the Right Move
I saw where the world was headed. Technology is the future, and I wanted to be part of it—not left behind. I knew that getting into tech meant job security, financial stability, and a chance to be at the forefront of innovation. Revature gave me the inroad that others couldn’t. While most people compete with thousands of applicants for the same roles, Revature offered a side door—through partnerships and exclusive hiring pathways with companies like JPMorgan.
This wasn’t just an opportunity. It was a life-changing shift.
For Anyone Who’s Considering Revature—Here’s What You Need to Know
Revature is not just a program; it’s a transformation. You’ll be challenged. You’ll be stretched. But more importantly, you’ll learn how to learn—a priceless skill in tech. You’ll build foundational knowledge, but also gain the mindset and resilience to tackle the unknown.
If you’re someone standing at a crossroads—like I was—wondering if this is the right move: take the plunge. Revature changed my life. It gave me a career, a future, and skills that no one can take away from me. My goal now is to rise in this industry and mentor others along the way.
This opportunity is real. And if it worked for me, it can work for you.
To watch the full video of Caleb's inspiring speech, please click the link here.
