Should I Join HCL TechBee?

Following my journey through the HCL TechBee program in 2023, I decided to share my experience openly to help others make informed decisions. This article delves into the HCL TechBee Program, its advantages, challenges, and the final decision I made after six months of intense training.

How I Became Part of HCL TechBee

My path to the HCL TechBee program was unconventional. During my time in college, I was passionate about becoming a software engineer, which led me to explore both BCA and BE/BTech CS as my next steps. However, due to financial constraints and inadequate scores in entrance examinations, I was unable to secure an engineering degree from a private or public college.

Feeling the pressure to find a viable alternative, I learned about the HCL TechBee program through recruiters visiting my college. After conducting extensive research, which yielded mixed reviews, I decided to take the plunge and apply. The decision was made amidst the considerable financial burden of the program, which required a significant investment of 1.1 lakhs (around 11,000 USD) for the complete package.

The Journey Begins

Upon joining the program, the first six months were categorized as the CRT (Classroom Training) phase. A brief overview of the CRT phase:

Basics of Computer Science: The first two months were dedicated to foundational skills that all scholars would share. Assessment: An assessment was conducted after the basics to ensure that each scholar had grasped the fundamentals. There were three attempts available to pass. Stream Allocation: Depending on performance in the assessment and current needs, scholars were assigned to different streams such as C, Python, Database, Dotnet, Oracle, and Unix.

Transitioning to my allocated stream and the assessment process, the path was smoother than expected. I passed the first assessment with a good score, earning a place in the C stream. However, a few of my batchmates had to retake the assessment, and those who passed scored the highly sought-after language, Java.

Challenges and Assessments

The rest of the CRT period involved a rigorous schedule of basic C/C programming and personal/technical language skills. Another monthly assessment rounded out the program, and it was easy to cheat on these assessments. Nevertheless, I managed to clear all assessments in my first attempt, a feat that I attribute to careful preparation and dedication.

The final assessment, IKM (In-Depth Knowledge and Skills), was a more significant challenge. Just 10% of the questions could be answered by the scholars on their own, despite intense preparation. This assessment was designed for software engineers with at least two years of experience, underscoring the steep challenge for new scholars.

Despite this, the IKM could be passed by studying from previous batch question papers. I successfully cleared it in my first attempt, while a few others required a second attempt.

Placement and Working Environment

After completing the CRT phase, final work placements were announced. However, my placement in Chennai, a distance of 40 kms from the main office, was disappointing. This was despite my hope of securing a position in Bangalore, where the salary and project opportunities were better.

Upon reaching Chennai, we were directed to Ambattur, a remote office, due to limited office space in the main office. Connecting with the Subject Matter Expert (SPOC) and the Reporting Manager (RM) was a nightmare, especially since the RM was unaware of the TechBee program's curriculum. The advice was clear: no projects, just sitting and waiting for the end of the month.

When it was time to leave, I informed my RM of my decision to quit. The HR response was unsatisfactory, with a long wait and a dismissive tone. I paid 1.1 lakhs for the program and received no refund, making me question the value of what I received.

Conclusion and Advice

Given my experience, I strongly advise students to consider the following before joining the HCL TechBee program:

Financial Planning: The hefty investment of 1.1 lakhs should be carefully considered. Career Goals: Ensure that the program aligns with your long-term career goals. Project Experience: Do not expect to gain meaningful industry experience. Salary Increment: HCL's increments are among the lowest in the IT industry.

For students outside the academic elite, the program might offer a path to employment, but for those with better opportunities, it might be a missed chance. I sincerely hope this experience helps others make more informed decisions.

Final Thought

My journey through HCL TechBee is a cautionary tale. I hope this article can help you avoid the pitfalls and make the right choices for your career.