AI Course vs Bootcamp vs Coaching:
Which Path Fits You?

Choose courses if: You're highly self-disciplined and can complete things without external accountability. You have limited budget ($0-$500). You already have a technical background and just need to fill specific gaps. You can structure your own learning path. Warning: Course completion rates are 5-15%. Most people who start courses don't finish them.

Choose a bootcamp if: You're a complete beginner with no coding experience. You need maximum structure and can't self-direct. You thrive in cohort environments with peer learning. You have $10K-$17K and 12-26 weeks to dedicate full-time or near full-time. You want the brand recognition of a known program on your resume.

Choose coaching if: You have transferable technical skills (SWE, data, etc.) and don't need beginner content. You want personalized guidance focused on YOUR gaps. You value direct access to someone who hires AI engineers. You prefer flexible pacing over fixed cohort schedules. You want lower upfront investment with more accountability.

Not necessarily. While some programming experience is helpful, many of my clients have successfully transitioned from web development, data science, or other technical backgrounds. We'll assess your current skills during our strategy call and create a personalized plan that meets you where you are.

Most clients invest 10-15 hours per week, but this can be flexible based on your schedule. We'll have weekly 1:1 calls plus time for you to work on projects and learning. The key is consistency. Regular, focused effort beats occasional marathons.

Investment details are discussed during the 30-minute strategy call, where we'll assess your goals and create a custom plan. The program is designed to pay for itself quickly through your increased salary. Most AI engineers see a 20-50% pay increase.

You become a member of the AI Native Engineer community, and you stay and keep going. Career transitions take different amounts of time for everyone, and I'm not going to abandon you if things take longer. You get ongoing support through good times and bad.

Online courses give you content. 1:1 coaching gives you a personalized roadmap, direct feedback on your work, career strategy, interview prep, and accountability. You get answers to your specific questions and guidance tailored to your unique situation instead of generic advice meant for everyone.

Absolutely. Most of my clients work full-time and make steady progress. We'll schedule calls at times that work for you and create a realistic plan that fits your schedule. Consistency matters more than intensity.

Online courses: $0-$500, but often need multiple courses to cover everything. Bootcamps: $10,000-$17,000 for comprehensive programs. 1:1 coaching: $3,000-$6,000 for 3-month programs. Consider also: opportunity cost of time (bootcamps are 12-26 weeks), potential salary increase if successful, and probability of completion/success.

For SWEs, 1:1 coaching typically offers the best ROI. Why? Bootcamps teach beginner content you already know (basic programming, version control, etc.). You're paying for 40% content you don't need. Courses can work but lack the personalized guidance to identify YOUR specific gaps. Coaching focuses exclusively on the AI-specific skills you need to add to your existing foundation.

Yes, and some people do. Common combinations: Courses for foundation + coaching for career strategy. Bootcamp for structure + coaching for job search. The question is whether the combined cost and time is worth it versus picking the right single path from the start. Often, the 'right path' chosen initially is more efficient than a hybrid.