Hiring the Right Talent: My Journey and Feedback for the Next Generation

Recently, I visited Masai School to hire fresh, talented full-stack developers. At Exthalpy, we’re committed to giving opportunities to new talent while also hiring experienced professionals. Masai’s practical, outcome-driven model stood out to me—it prioritizes real-world skills over the more traditional, theoretical approach.

I interviewed twelve candidates in one session. While many were confident with the basics, the real challenge came when I asked them to tackle something practical, like building an AI-powered PDF summariser using an API. It wasn’t a particularly complex task—just consuming an API—but the word “AI” seemed to overwhelm many of the candidates. They perceived it as a whole new field requiring extensive learning, when in reality, it was about applying foundational skills to a new context. This highlighted a gap: the need for developers to build confidence in exploring new tools and technologies, especially in areas like AI, which are increasingly integral to modern development.

What stood out during the hiring process was how proactive the Masai team was. Seeing our challenges in finding suitable candidates, the coordinators introduced me to the person responsible for designing their back-end curriculum. He took the time to speak with me, understand my perspective, and ask for detailed feedback on how their program could better align with industry demands. I was impressed by their openness to improvement and their eagerness to adapt quickly.

This experience reinforced something I already value: the ability to adapt. In today’s fast-changing tech landscape, especially in AI, developers need more than technical knowledge. They need to think creatively, solve unique problems, and use AI as a tool to innovate, not just follow templates.

If you’re an aspiring developer, here’s my advice on what to prioritize in your learning:

1. Focus on problem-solving—get comfortable with ambiguity and figuring things out on your own.

2. Learn how to use APIs effectively and experiment with integrating new tools into projects.

3. Stay updated with industry trends, especially in fields like AI, but focus on application, not just knowledge.

4. Build projects outside your comfort zone. Think of ideas that haven’t been done before, even if they seem hard.

I’m confident that Masai is on the right path and is doing a phenomenal job overall. With their focus on practical skills and their eagerness to evolve, I’m certain that the next time I visit, the experience will be even better. Their commitment to continuous improvement is a great sign for aspiring developers and for the industry as a whole.