My Early Careers journey. Nikita and tech

Our Early Careers programmes will help you build a career, not just a job. If you're focused on high performance and delivering the best for our customers, you'll thrive at Nationwide.

We talked to Nikita, about her experience on our Technology Development Programme, designed for both graduates and career changers.

I'm Nikita, and I joined the Technology Development Programme (TDP) as a career changer in May 2022. I work as an Analyst in our Security and Resilience team. I’m from India and have been in the UK for 15 years. I live with my family in Essex and have spent the last 9 years of my career working at Nationwide.

What did you do before the programme?

I have been fortunate to gain experience in various roles across Nationwide before joining the TDP. This has helped me bring soft skills to the role. I’ve worked as a Customer Representative, a Personal Banking & Insurance Manager, and a Mortgage Representative.  

What have you gained?

I've enhanced my technical knowledge, improved my time management, and developed a passion for inclusion and diversity. Engaging with diverse stakeholders has broadened my worldview for technology and made me more adaptable to the fast-changing tech world. 

I’ve gained profound insights into various areas of tech. I’ve completed two core modules for business analysis, I’ve delved deeply into subjects like Azure fundamentals, Agile fundamentals, and completed some pathways of CISSP from Pluralsight. I’ve also developed practical skills in JIRA, GitHub, Confluence, Microsoft 365 and learned how to collaborate effectively with peers in an Agile environment.

I've also sharpened my research, analytical and problem-solving skills. Tech is always changing and I’ve become more adaptable and open to new challenges, a really strong foundation for success in my future career.

How have your relationships become more rewarding?

Open communication and mutual understanding has helped me to see different perspectives. Improving my conflict resolution skillset has allowed me to say it straight, which has led to stronger and more resilient relationships.

What's next for you?

After the programme I’ll become an E1 Engineer which will be a new step in my career.

I‘ll always be a big advocate of the programme, particularly supporting people who might be scared of a big career change. They just need help in understanding the benefits of the TDP.  I’m also going to keep networking and building relationships with people from different areas.

High performing and purpose-driven people deserve rewarding career experiences.

Graduates and career changers can find out more about our programmes here.