How to become a software engineer: Ekansh's story

Meet Ekansh, 21, from London. He works in London and Leeds as a software engineer. Part of our Bitesize world of work series.

The sky’s the limit even when you’re only 21.

What is your job?

I like to think of it as problem solving. I write code and liaise with people to solve problems with them. I do this for a range of clients.

What are your day-to-day tasks?

I have to travel up to Leeds every week. My tasks include making daily calls, writing code, managing spreadsheets and managing releases of software.

What subjects do you draw from?

Mainly Maths and Physics. It’s the problem-solving aspects of things; I’ve always enjoyed solving problems. It really helps if you have an analytical mind and approach things in an organised manner.

Do you use any soft skills in your job?

You have to use every soft skill you can imagine. It takes a combination of all of them: speaking, teamwork, time management, organisational skills, analytical skills, and problem-solving skills. I mean, the list goes on.

Is this the job you always wanted to do?

Yes. I wanted initially to go to university. I had offers to do Physics at university, but I knew I wanted to end up working in technology. Then I found that degree apprenticeships offer experience; you get a degree in three years and no student debt. You’re working, and you’re getting experience all at the same time. So, it was a no-brainer really.

Top tips

• If you have an interest, do your research
• If you want to get from London to Manchester, there are lots of different roads. It's the same with careers. It's all about finding the best route for you.

What to expect if you want to be an engineer

• How many people work in the engineering sector?
• What can you earn in different roles?
• What routes can you take to get in?
• Is the demand for engineers expected to grow in the future?

Watch the film to find out the answers to these questions, and much more!

Other resources

• See what type of engineering role might suit you with the meet the future you quiz
• Find out more about the different areas of engineering with this guide from Tomorrow's Engineers
• Learn more about roles in engineering with the National Careers Service explore careers tool
• Discover a practical new way to study via T-levels (England-only).

For careers advice in all parts of the UK visit: National Careers Service (England), nidirect (Northern Ireland), My World of Work (Scotland) and Careers Wales (Wales).

Work experience in your area
Find work experience placements with Workfinder.

Tips and advice
Help with interviews, writing a CV and all things work experience related.