How to Find Your Niche in Software Development
On this bonus podcast season one episode, Managing Director at Corecom Technology Academy, James Taylor, was joined by Daniel Cox, Development Director at Flotilla.
They discuss how to discover your niche in software development, setting realistic expectations when managing stakeholders, the importance of staying on top of the latest technologies, and answering the all-important question in tech – “Will AI take over my job?”. Read on for key takeaways.
Progressing into Tech Leadership
With over 15 years of experience in the IT sector, Dan Cox’s journey into leadership has been shaped by a drive for continuous improvement and a passion for making technology work smarter. Reflecting on his progression, Dan highlights how his role has evolved: “I always see that as my key role within the organisation of technology – efficiency gains within the business.”.
Dan's path into tech was inspired by his older brother, who built a successful career in IT without a university degree. He stated, “I thought, ‘I could start a career in this right now without having to go to university. If I don’t want to, the options are there’. There’s nothing stopping me from taking a similar route – and that’s how I got into it.”.
Daniel’s story is a testament to how passion, mentorship, and alternative pathways can lead to impactful leadership roles in tech.
“I think an important trait is attention to detail. It can really set you apart from other candidates – how you listen to people, how well youcommunicate, and how well you write code.”- Daniel Cox, Development Director at Flotilla
The True Impact of Support at Work
Daniel’s journey into software development began unexpectedly while he was still in education. Although he initially saw himself more suited to other areas of IT, such as networking, a job ad for a software development role caught his attention... so he decided to take a leap of faith.
After securing the position, it was the guidance and support of his manager that proved to be a turning point. With continuous encouragement and mentorship, Daniel was able to navigate the unfamiliar world of software development, ultimately discovering a passion for it. That early support laid the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career, highlighting just how crucial the right workplace guidance can be in shaping long-term professional growth.
At Corecom Technology Academy, we also recognise the power of that kind of support. That’s why our programmes have built-in career development pathways, 1:1 support, and wellbeing support – ensuring that every individual not only gains the technical skills they need but also feels valued, understood, and confident as they progress in their tech careers.
Key Takeaways You Can’t Miss
Innovative Software Development Tools - Learn about the groundbreaking technologies that are transforming industries and shaping the job market in 2025.
Developing Key Skills - Gain essential tech and soft skills like coding, problem-solving, and communication. Parents can spark early interest too using tools like the BBC micro:bit, make coding fun and accessible for kids!
Managing Stakeholder Expectations - Hear insights into how to effectively communicate and manage expectations with stakeholders, ensuring your projects run smoothly and meet business goals.
Staying Ahead of Trends - Understand how to stay up-to-date on the latest trends to remain relevant in the software development industry.
The (Potential) Impact of AI on Jobs – Hear insights about “Will AI take over my job?” from a developer’s perspective, along with how you can adapt it into your work.
Final Thoughts
This #TechIsForEveryone episode is perfect for anyone looking to advance their software development career.
If you're currently a student, an aspiring developer, or a seasoned professional looking to enhance your skills, Daniel provides valuable (and actionable) insights to help you navigate your career with even greater success.
Watch this full podcast episode with Daniel Cox here.