Apply for the

Software Engineer

Growth Program

I help software engineers just like you

increase your impact, influence and income!

See things from a engineering manager's perspective

Scale your impact and grow your influence

Build a high-impact reputation

Increase your total compensation (TC)

Leverage AI effectively

Common challenges

  • No path to promotion

  • No visibility to your value or impact

  • Struggling to influence without authority

  • Not being mentored or supported

  • Burned out but afraid to slow down

  • Feeling stuck in your role or career

  • No ownership over end-to-end features

  • Managing up

  • Managing unrealistic or unclear expectations

  • Struggling to build a strong relationship with your manager

  • Ideas aren't considered or accepted

  • Know you could be earning more

You don't need to figure out on your own.

We can help!

What is the Software Engineer Growth Program?

Part-time · Live coaching

Our Software Engineering Growth Program is designed for software engineers who want to take their careers to the next level. Led by Justin Otero, a Senior Software Engineering Manager, this program offers unique insights and hands-on coaching so that you can get unstuck and have clarity for your career.

Practical Application

Advice and frameworks you can implement immediately

Weekly Feedback

Receive weekly feedback on your work from your coach, and your peers

Certificate of completion

Graduate with a Software Engineer
Growth Program certificate

Manageable Part-Time Coaching

The Software Engineering Growth Program works for you and your busy schedule. Each week, you'll complete 1-3 hours of

practical tasks, attend live classes and receive personal feedback.

Weekly program

Attend live coaching sessions weekly

Personal Feedback

Receive direct feedback on your work from Justin

Project Based

Learn-by-doing with 1-3 hrs of practical weekly tasks

Attend Live Coaching Sessions

Attend live coaching with a likeminded group of software engineers from around the country

Community Access

Stay accountable and collaborate with other software engineers

The secret sauce to becoming a high performer

What you'll learn in the Software Engineer Growth Program...

Communication

Master how to clearly convey ideas, build understanding, and foster collaboration—enabling you to influence and lead others.

Time Management

Maximize productivity and focus by learning to prioritize, plan, and execute with precision.

Relationships

Create meaningful, high-trust relationships that foster accountability, collaboration, and influence across your team.

Contributions

Consistently go beyond your core responsibilities, and contribute strategically to drive meaningful impact for your team.

Recognition

Ensure that your contributions and impact are visible to key decision-makers, while also celebrating and uplifting others.

Performance

Learn how to deliver results with greater efficiency and scalability, leading to sustained success without burnout.

Program Outline:

A learn by doing approach

Our curriculum is constantly updated ensuring a practical learning methodology.

Module 0: Mindset

Success starts from within. This module helps you shift your perspective, build resilience, and define success on your own terms. You'll learn how to overcome self-doubt, stay consistent, and grow in your career without sacrificing what matters most.

Objectives

- Develop a growth mindset for continuous improvement

- Build resilience and adaptability in high-pressure environments

- Overcome imposter syndrome and self-doubt

- Cultivate discipline and consistency for long-term fulfillment

Module 1: Successful Communication

Good communication is at the heart of everything we do. In this module, you’ll learn how to express your ideas clearly, understand how others see your message, and bring people onto the same page. We’ll also dive into how to handle tricky conversations so you can feel confident and stay effective no matter the situation.

Objectives

- Communicate Clearly: Tailor your message to effectively connect with your audience.

- Understand Perception: Gain insights into how your communication is received and interpreted.

- Create Alignment: Build mutual understanding and ensure everyone is on the same page.

- Manage Tough Conversations: Handle challenging discussions with confidence and poise.

Module 2: Time Management

Mastering time management is key to staying productive without burning out. In this module, you’ll learn how to prioritize effectively, plan your time proactively, and focus on the tasks that truly move the needle. You’ll also discover strategies to reduce stress and fatigue, helping you avoid the “busy work” trap and focus on delivering real value to your team and company.

Objectives

- Prioritize Effectively: Identify and focus on what matters most.

- Proactively Plan Your Time: Organize your schedule to stay ahead of deadlines and goals.

- Increase Focus and Productivity: Achieve more by staying focused on the task at hand.

- Reduce Fatigue and Stress: Manage your time in a way that promotes balance and well-being.

Module 3: Intentional Relationships

In this module, you'll learn how to build meaningful relationships that foster trust and accountability. You’ll gain the skills to develop connections where you feel comfortable sharing, depending on others, and holding one another accountable. By cultivating relationships across all levels, you’ll expand your influence and create a supportive network that drives your success.

Objectives

- Gain Allies and Advocates: Build strong, supportive relationships that help advance your career.

- Repair Relationships: Resolve conflicts and strengthen damaged connections.

- Expand Your Influence: Increase your reach and impact by developing meaningful connections.

- Enhance Accountability: Foster a sense of responsibility within your relationships for mutual growth and success.

Module 4: High-Level Contributions

In this module, you'll learn how to contribute beyond your hard skills and make a lasting impact in your role. By identifying opportunities to add value and becoming a force multiplier, you'll build a reputation as someone who consistently delivers value, driving both personal and organizational success.

Objectives

- Contribute Beyond Hard Skills: Discover how to add value through soft skills, mindset, and creativity.

- Identify Opportunities: Spot areas where you can contribute more.

- Become a Force Multiplier: Learn how to leverage your strengths to amplify the success of others and drive greater outcomes.

Module 5: Recognition

Learn how to highlight your contributions and build a track record of success. By effectively sharing your impact and creating trust with others, you’ll position yourself for the opportunities you deserve.

Objectives

- Be Humble: Let your actions and character speak louder than self-promotion.

- Understand and Share Your Value and Impact: Clearly communicate the results and impact of your work.

- Celebrate Others: Recognize and honor the contributions of your peers to foster a culture of appreciation.

- Create a Track Record: Build a consistent history of achievements that showcase your reliability and value.

Module 6: Optimize Performance

This module teaches you how to enhance your performance by focusing on the right actions at the right time. You’ll learn how to build momentum with small, consistent efforts that not only improve your performance but also positively impact your team. By mastering strategies that scale and leveraging tools like AI, you’ll create a system that delivers results with less stress.

Objectives

- Take Action Sooner: Build momentum and avoid unnecessary delays.

- Prepare Yourself and Others: Foster readiness and alignment for successful execution.

- Learn What Scales: Focus on strategies and efforts that grow with impact.

* Bonus Sessions

Get extra value with special lessons on real-world AI usage, practical implementation tips, and how to leverage AI in your engineering work. You’ll also hear from guest speakers sharing insights on growth, leadership, and navigating the industry.

Not sure if this is the program for you?

This is for you if...

This is not for you if...

  • Professional experience as a software engineer

  • You are busy with life and work.

  • You take control of your future.

  • You want to make a larger impact.

  • You want to increase your value.

  • You want results.

  • You want to earn more.

  • You want more and are ready to do what it takes.

  • You know there is always more to learn.

  • You want to be an example for others.

  • You believe you’re called for more.

  • You don’t take action.

  • You give up easily.

  • You are not open to feedback.

  • You expect immediate success without putting in work.

  • You have never invested in coaching, books, or courses before.

  • You have a limited mindset.

  • You are not willing to invest.

"As someone who has been fortunate to work with Justin,
I can wholeheartedly recommend him as a mentor."

-Alexander Yablontsev

FAQs

How is this program different from other career coaching programs?

Unlike generic career coaching programs, Value Driven Careers is specifically tailored for software engineers. It focuses on high-impact skills beyond coding, such as communication, time management, influence, and strategic contributions that lead to promotions and recognition.

What results can I expect from this program?

Engineers who apply the lessons from this program can expect:

Increased recognition at work

Faster promotions and salary growth

More leadership opportunities

Stronger relationships with peers and managers

Reduced stress and increased job satisfaction

How much time should I dedicate to the program each week?

Most participants spend 2–4 hours per week engaging with lessons, exercises, and coaching calls. However, the more you apply what you learn, the faster you'll see results.

What if I miss a session?

That's ok! Each live session will be recorded and sent out. We do strongly recommend that you attend as many sessions as possible to maximize your time with your coach and peers.

What if I’m looking for a new job—does this program help with that?

Absolutely! The program helps you build a strong professional brand, surface your achievements, and prepare for high-level job interviews so you can land better opportunities.

Do you provide resume and interview coaching?

Yes! While the core program focuses on long-term career growth, we also provide resume optimization, personal branding, and interview prep strategies for those actively job searching.

Will I get direct access to a mentor or coach?

Yes! You'll have access to coaching calls where you can ask questions, get feedback, and receive personalized career guidance.

Is there a community or group I can be part of?

Yes! We have a private community where you can connect with like-minded engineers, share wins, and get support. Our community is the best place to network and get referrals.

How much does the program cost?

Pricing varies depending on the level of access and coaching. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about the best option for you.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes! We offer flexible payment plans to make the program more accessible.

Is there a money-back guarantee?

Yes! If you complete the coursework, apply the lessons, and don’t see results within a set period, we offer a satisfaction guarantee.

How long do I have access to the program?

You get lifetime access to the core curriculum, so you can revisit lessons anytime. Coaching and community access depends on your selected plan.

What happens after I complete the program?

You'll have the skills, confidence, and strategies to keep growing your career. Many graduates continue engaging in our community and take advantage of network referrals.

Ready for your next step?

Whether you're ready to invest in your career journey, or you have a few questions, we're here to help!

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