Leon | Data Analytics

Leon (47) took part in Generation’s Data Analytics bootcamp in the West Midlands in 2024. Before joining the programme Leon was unemployed for 9 years due to caring responsibilities. 

“I hadn’t really applied for a job at that point, having not worked for 9 years – I thought that potential employers would see that negatively, so I wanted something to back up my data skills.

Having been a carer for so long, I didn’t have any money, a car, a place, or any clue which direction to go with work. 

I thought as I didn’t have a specialism that would count against me in the job market.”

During the Data Analytics bootcamp Leon learnt the technical skills required for a role in data, but the growth in his confidence throughout the process was invaluable to him.

“The bootcamp gave me confidence. I realised that the experiences I’d had are still valuable and I could show them through a newly learned skill set. 

What I found through the course and now in my workspace, is that data analysis both from a technical and practical level gives us a lot of broad skills anyway which are very desirable to employers (technical IT skills, analytical skills, prioritizing time, working multiple projects, making reports, presentations, research skills, problem solving, sorting out excel when it has gone wrong for colleagues!)”

Upon graduation, Leon secured a role as an Administration Leader at Royal British Legion. His role involves reporting and analysis, setting up systems and processes relating to invoices, approvals, and overseeing team projects.

“It’s already been noted by my director that my skill set is very broad and she’d like me to be more involved with the strategy and overall implementation of system and process. It’s nice to be recognised and feel like you have options.”

The Generation bootcamp has had a huge impact on Leon’s life. His proudest achievements since graduating and gaining employment include:

“Getting a car, being able to financially assist my children, my mental health and confidence improved, my sense of worth and feeling valued, making plans for the future, having a place to live.”