In our series, Life of a No-Code Developer, we are exploring the pathways to entering the no-code profession. Today, we sat down with Juan, the Head of Developer Excellence at Airdev, to learn more about him and his journey to becoming a full-time no-code developer. In his current role he manages and improves the developer function at Airdev. Learn more about how he got to where he is below!
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Q: How did you discover no-code and Bubble?
I have been interested in and using no-code tools for a long time. I started using these tools over 15 years ago when I built my first website using Blogger and I have built many websites using WordPress since. I started using Bubble around 2 years ago.
Q: Why did you start learning Bubble?
Around 2 years ago I began work on a new SaaS product, a rehearsal booking service for music school teachers using WordPress and several plugins. This tech stack had a number of limitations, namely I was unable to modify the plugins to accurately meet my use case. I realized I wanted to have more control and flexibility and would not be able to achieve this on WordPress.
I previously had some coding experience limited to self-taught HTML, CSS and Javascript and quickly realized that I still needed further knowledge on the backend and infrastructure to build my product with code. Having used WordPress for the last 15 years, I intuited that there had to finally be a tool which would make building SaaS products easier.
At this point I delved into the world of Bubble and no-code builders. I did my research and found that Bubble had the capabilities and features that I was looking for. What helped me to make this switch was finding Not Real Twitter, I realized that if this can be built on Bubble then this was the platform for me!
Q: What did you do prior to becoming a no-code developer?
Prior to being a Bubble developer I worked as an architect specialized in technology. I had also built a number of online projects such as my professional page, a Stack Overflow-esque Q&A website on architecture and engineering software including a directory of books with affiliate links. I built these using WordPress, spreadsheets and scraping websites for information.
Q: How did you learn Bubble?
I learned Bubble through Airdev’s free no-code bootcamp. I enrolled as soon as I discovered it and in 15 days I was building web applications with Bubble. I found it to be a great resource for learning Bubble. On completion I began to be an active member of the Bubble Forum which is a great place to learn and hone your Bubble skills. I try to get involved and support the community where I can.
Q: What was the first app that you built?
The first app I built was a TO-DO list as part of the Airdev bootcamp! The second was a marketplace where freelancers could offer and sell their services also as part of the bootcamp. Once I graduated from the program, I began to work with Airdev and my first professional app supported schools in selling apples to raise funds for extracurricular activities.
Q: When did you decide to make the leap to full time Bubble development?
As soon as I started building on Bubble I found that I really enjoyed it. Once I completed the bootcamp, my instructor suggested that I should apply for the Airdev Partner Program. At this point, I decided to take a risk and turn what was my lifelong hobby into a full-time career. I wanted to go all in on something I was passionate about.
Q: How did you find your first client?
After being accepted into the Partner Program I was offered my first project which suited my experience and background. From there I was on my way to becoming a full time Bubble developer!
Q: What have you enjoyed most about being a Bubble developer?
I enjoy so many things about being a Bubble developer. On one hand I love building on Bubble. I like the power of the platform and how it functions as a blank canvas to imprint my ideas upon.
On the other hand, I love the programming challenges that come with being a developer. I enjoy the process of studying and solving problems including the satisfaction of completing a technically challenging project. Overall though, I find that this is a growing profession which allows me to make a very good living doing something I enjoy.
Q: If there was one thing you wish you knew before you started, what would it be?
The evolution of the Bitcoin price. Just kidding! But seriously, I wish I had discovered Bubble earlier.
Q: What’s the plan for the future?
My current role at Airdev involves supporting other developers in solving problems they encounter in their projects and helping with training and improving developers’ skills. This involves developing new processes including understanding and sharing how to create scalable, robust and extensible applications. We are working to establish and codify the role of a no-code developer which I am passionate about and plan to continue working on.
Want to start your career in no-code?
The rise of the professional no-coder has already begun. To get started learning no-code or turning your hobby into a profession, check out our professional bootcamp and partner program!
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