My path to Zip Code Wilmington was a bit roundabout. After graduating from the University of Delaware in 2017, I worked for a small startup at 1313 Innovation. Our lead developer was a Zip Code graduate, and through that connection I began to hear more about the program. 

I attended networking and startup events at The Mill, met Tareeq, and even toured Zip Code when my coworker took our team to visit. At the time, it all felt far beyond my reach. 

Fast forward to 2018. The startup had shut down, and I found myself working in construction, earning $15 an hour doing demolition, roofing, and drain and sewer work. My business management degree from UD was broad, and I struggled to land interviews. 

After nearly a year on construction sites, I realized I needed technical skills if I wanted a new path. I enjoyed the building aspect of my work, so when I thought about what could come next, coding made sense. Zip Code seemed like the right fit. 

I applied, joined the program in 2019, and everything changed from there. 

Today, I’m the sales engineering lead for the life sciences vertical at Domino Data Lab, where I help design and sell software that powers clinical research for some of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies. It’s an exciting field, and I love that my work supports new drug discoveries that help patients. 

The advice I share most often is to trust that things will come, but only with time, risk, and consistent hard work. Be patient and put in the effort every day, and the right opportunities will appear. 

For Zip Coders specifically, I always say: be generous with your knowledge. When something clicks for you, help it click for someone else too. If everyone in your cohort does that, there is no limit to what you can accomplish together. That mindset not only builds stronger teams but better leaders. 

Technology continues to evolve quickly, and I see its benefits firsthand. In my field, AI tools help shorten the time between an idea and a working prototype, allowing us to test and iterate faster. I’ve seen how technology can transform DNA sequencing, clinical trials, and drug discovery. These tools are powerful in every industry, and no matter your role, you can find ways to use them to be more productive and creative every day. 

Jim’s journey shows that tech careers aren’t just about coding. They are about curiosity, persistence, and community.