Katia’s journey: Application Developer Apprentice at Infotel

A career in Tech wasn’t the obvious choice for Katia. Today, she’s an apprentice at Infotel, working within a technical and data team where she has discovered a real passion for software development and architecture. Here’s a look at her unconventional and inspiring journey.

A rich background before Tech

Before turning to IT, Katia began with a degree in History and Languages. With a background rooted in culture and languages, Katia spent a great deal of time travelling. These experiences initially inspired her to think about launching her own travel business.

However, the COVID19 pandemic changed everything. Borders closed and projects were paused. While reflecting on the digital aspects of her future plans, she joined Simplon. This organisation is recognised for its inclusive approach to career transitions.

“At first, I just wanted to understand what a web application looked like so I could explain it to a service provider. While researching, I discovered Simplon and I was completely drawn into it.”

She then began her first apprenticeship at a French automotive manufacturer. She continued her training toward a professional qualification as an Application Developer Designer.

Joining Infotel: a new step forward

Currently splitting her time between Infotel and her studies at Simplon, Katia has become fully embedded in one of our client teams. Her journey began with a seamless onboarding experience where she felt supported from day one.

“I received such a warm welcome. Being based directly at the client site with the Infotel team around me meant I felt genuinely well looked after.”

Part of an integral team

Katia is currently working on a large-scale project. This involves the development of an internal chatbot connected to Confluence documentation. The goal is to help analysts access key information more quickly. This includes procedures, technical documentation, and operational guidelines. The tool improves knowledge sharing and reduces search time.

In this context, Infotel plays a key role by providing specialists directly integrated into client teams based on identified needs. The roles involved include testers, developers, analysts, and quality experts. All these specialists contribute operational support. This setup helps the client progress smoothly and maintain project continuity.

Within this framework, Katia is working on functional testing and software quality. This is a vital role in providing a reliable and consistent chatbot.

“It’s a very large project and it takes time to fully understand its logic. I was able to work on functional testing and really experience the quality aspect of an application.”

This experience has given her a broader understanding of the software lifecycle. She’s gained insight into architecture, team interactions, and the gradual maturity of a technical product.

Determined to take the next step

This year, Katia will complete her qualification, which is at bachelor’s degree level. She is now focused on the next stage of her career and is eager to stay with Infotel as she continues to progress.

“I would love to stay on as an apprentice while I work towards my Master’s degree. It would be great to get involved in some of the more creative projects here.”

Katia is keen to take on more responsibility and sharpen her skills on projects where she can really put her creative side to use.

Recommending life at Infotel

Katia has no hesitation in recommending the apprentice experience at Infotel to others.

“Infotel really gave me a chance. In the tech industry, many companies wouldn’t consider an application if you didn’t already have a Master’s degree, but here I was trusted from the beginning.”

That culture of trust provided the perfect environment for Katia to develop her skills. It allowed her to work on high-profile projects while learning from down-to-earth teams who were always there to offer guidance.

An inspiring transition

Katia’s story is proof that you don’t need a traditional background to succeed in technology. Through a mix of curiosity and sheer determination, she has carved out a place for herself in the industry. With Infotel supporting her at every turn, her journey is only just beginning.