TESDA Programming (Java) NC III: From Interns to Full-Time Hires

For many aspiring developers, the path to a tech career can feel out of reach. But that dream has become a reality for a group of five determined learners. Alcen, Rod, Catherine, Kyle, and Jeremy from the Armada Logics TESDA Programming (Java) NC III and OJT program. What started as an online class at Armada Logics has turned into something much bigger. A launchpad for their careers in software development.

From the beginning, these graduates didn’t just learn to code; they learned what it means to build something real. Guided consistently by Armada Logics instructors, they spent weeks mastering Java, collaborating on projects, and solving problems that mirrored real industry challenges. After receiving their TESDA certificate of completion, their journey didn’t stop. It continued to evolve through hands-on experience and mentorship.

From Graduates to Interns: Launching Careers with Armada Logics

As they transitioned into Armada’s internship program, they joined development teams, worked on real-world software projects, and experienced firsthand the fast-paced rhythm of tech life. Their talent, drive, and curiosity stood out. Before long, the Armada Logics engineering team welcomed them as full-time members.

Ultimately, their story is more than a celebration of individual achievement. It’s a testament to what’s possible when accessible education meets real opportunity. As a TESDA-accredited training center, Armada Logics continues to help shape the next generation of Filipino software engineers — proving that with the right guidance, mentorship, and hands-on experience, local talent can thrive in the global tech arena.

Alcen Kapitbahay: From OJT Java Trainee to Quality Assurance Engineer

For Alcen, joining the Armada Logics OJT program started as an academic requirement. But it soon became a personal journey of growth.

“Since I already had some fundamentals in Java, I thought, why not take this opportunity to learn new things and grow further?” he shared.

Through the OJT training, Alcen strengthened his fundamentals. He learned how to write clean and maintainable code using OOP principles. And developed a sharper approach to problem-solving. His transition from OJT to internship felt “smooth and natural.”

“The people here are knowledgeable, friendly, and approachable. The environment made it easy for me to adapt,” Alcen said.

During his internship, he learned the fundamentals of testing. Soon after, he was entrusted with real projects. Finding bugs and helping developers fix them boosted his confidence. And that’s when he realized he could do this full-time.

Now a full-time Quality Assurance Engineer, Alcen continues to take on new responsibilities. His new task now includes prototypes and staging builds. Looking ahead, he hopes to explore automation and security testing. And even backend development someday.

“Everyone has their own pace,” he advised future interns. “What matters is consistency and the willingness to improve.”

Alcen’s advice to future trainees: 

“Don’t worry too much about guidance. The people here are very knowledgeable and hands-on when it comes to supporting the team. There’s no need to hurry in learning. Everyone has their own pace. What matters most is consistency and willingness to improve over time. Just be committed to what your goals are.”

Rod Alvin Cudiamat: From TESDA Programming (Java) NC III to Armada’s AI Team

For Rod, joining the TESDA Programming (Java) NC III course was a way to keep learning in a field that never stops evolving. “In IT, learning doesn’t stop,” he said. 

“There’s always something new, so learning opportunities should be grabbed.”

He credits Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) as a key foundation. “Even when I'm not using Java, OOP makes my code cleaner and easier to debug,” he shared. That mindset helped him transition smoothly to his internship at Armada Logics. Guided by expert mentors, he built mini systems and strengthened his backend skills.

“The experience gave me a lot of learning,” Rod recalled. “Our seniors reviewed our code and taught us best practices — what to avoid and what to do.” 

His turning point came when he developed a Leave Management System. Successfully building it all by himself proved that he was ready to take on the challenges of the professional world.

Now a full-time member of Armada’s AI team, Rod focuses on research and development. His main focus is on Large Language Models (LLMs) and prompt engineering. “I really see my career growing at Armada Logics,” he said. 

His advice for those hoping to follow the same path is to grab it: 

“Opportunities like this are rare, especially for fresh graduates. Armada has a very welcoming and fun environment that truly helps you grow.”

Catherine Bello: Developing with Purpose

For Catherine, joining Armada Logics’ OJT program was about more than coding. It was about growth. “I wanted my OJT to be meaningful and worth all the effort,” she shared. “A place where I could enjoy what I do and grow as a future professional.”

During training, Catherine learned the best coding practices. She mentioned that she hadn’t encountered these practices anywhere else. “It changed the way I think about programming,” she said. Mentors guided her throughout, who encouraged learning through mistakes. Eventually, her determination paid off when she built confidence in both technical and problem-solving skills.

Transitioning to an internship, Catherine focused on UI/UX and front-end development. She mainly worked with React, TypeScript, and Next.js. It was an excellent opportunity for her to apply coding best practices in real scenarios.

The experience helped Catherine build a strong foundation in front-end development. And she gained valuable hands-on experience through project work. Moreover, her internship also prepared her for a full-time role. It taught her to collaborate with mentors. Accept feedback constructively and refine her skills continuously. Qualities she thinks are essential for growth as a developer.

Eventually, the realization that she could pursue this work full-time came naturally. “I noticed I was enjoying the work so much that the days went by without me feeling tired,” she said.

Soon after, when she was offered a full-time role, Catherine felt both proud and grateful. “I think I was hired because I showed consistency and a strong willingness to learn,” she said. Now part of the development team, she continues to grow. Collaborating with senior developers and taking on new challenges daily.

Her advice to aspiring developers is simple: 

“Genuinely enjoy what you are doing and never stop learning or improving. Embrace the process, and do not be afraid to make mistakes. Making mistakes does not mean you are failing; it is a sign that you are learning and making progress. Being committed and open to feedback will help you develop your skills and grow throughout your journey.”

Kyle De Jesus: Building Confidence Through TESDA Programming (Java) NC III

Kyle joined the TESDA Programming (Java) NC III program out of his curiosity. “I wanted to understand what and how programming really works,” he said.

That curiosity became the foundation of his growth. “I learned to apply object-oriented programming concepts to write organized and efficient code. And to be patient and persistent in solving problems,” Kyle reflected.

Despite early nerves, he embraced his internship at Armada Logics. Taking on website development projects that sharpened both his technical and problem-solving skills. His defining moment came during his exam. “I built a website in just a few hours, although static. It proved to me that I could handle real tasks efficiently and confidently.”

Now training as a Mobile Developer, Kyle’s day-to-day is more structured. With higher accountability and a focus on mastering new tools. “There’s more accountability and higher expectations, but also more opportunities to grow and improve,” he shared.

His advice to future interns: 

“Stay curious, be patient, and always ask questions. Keep practicing and learning from past mistakes.”

Jeremy Glenn Panlasigui: Adapting Fast, Dreaming Big

Jeremy joined the OJT program to strengthen his fundamentals and gain confidence with new technologies.“I wanted to learn the fundamentals and be confident using the technologies,” he said. From the very beginning, the experience exceeded his expectations.

During his internship at Armada Logics, Jeremy built responsive, maintainable websites. And explored tools like Drupal, WordPress, and web animation. His adaptability stood out — especially when handling different projects under tight timelines. “The project Stairway really made me realize I can do this full-time. I learned so much while working on it,” he shared.

When he was hired as a Web Developer, Jeremy described feeling a mix of excitement and disbelief. His dream came true after years of hard work. 

“I felt a mix of excitement and disbelief. It was really satisfying because this is something I’ve been dreaming of for a long time. I think what tipped things in my favor was my ability to adapt quickly to different technologies and my dedication to learning,” Jeremy said.

Looking ahead, he aims to deepen his expertise in web animation and logical problem-solving, with the ultimate goal of crafting maintainable and visually engaging web applications.

Jeremy’s advice to future trainees:

“Keep learning, ask questions when you encounter something new, but pace yourself, take breaks. And make coding a regular habit without burning out.”

Empowering the Next Generation of Software Engineers

These young engineers' stories reflect what Armada Logics and TESDA stand for. Accessible, practical, and future-ready tech education. What started as training became transformation. And now, a launching pad for thriving tech careers.

Their journeys show what’s possible when education meets opportunity. Reminding us that with consistency and the right support system, anyone can turn learning into a lasting career

Through mentorship, collaboration, and real-world projects, these once-beginner coders have become skilled professionals. New additions to the force that are shaping the future of tech in the Philippines. As Armada Logics continues to bridge learning and innovation, one thing is clear. The future of tech is being built here, one engineer at a time.

Ready to kickstart your career in software development?

Apply now at tesda.armadalogics.com to join our upcoming TESDA Programming (Java) NC III training programs.

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