TLDR: The Nerdery is Ravn’s elite training and evaluation program for junior engineers and designers. We built it to grow high-performing engineering squads that meet Ravn’s standards and integrate seamlessly with our client teams. With over 100 participants since 2021 and a graduation rate under 60%, the program is intentionally demanding, deeply immersive, and strategically aligned with market needs.

Greetings builders!

Let’s be honest-junior talent is everywhere. But production-ready, high-performance junior talent? That’s a different story.

In 2021, we launched The Nerdery—our in-house, paid training and vetting program designed to bridge that gap. It’s where raw talent becomes real contributors. Think of it as equal parts training academy, performance incubator, and extended interview. Because getting hired at Ravn isn’t easy. And it shouldn’t be.

Phase I: Structured, Stack-Specific Training (3 Months)
We start with the basics. Each cohort focuses on a targeted tech track like React, Node, Java, Design, QA, etc. based on anticipated market demand and individual preferences. Nerds are embedded in our offices, mentored by senior engineers, and evaluated weekly through demos and code reviews. This is more than just a classroom—it’s a proving ground. Only the top performers move on.

Phase II: Real Projects, Real Experience (3 Months)
Graduates of Phase I are invited into a higher-stakes environment where they work on internal projects. They operate with more autonomy, but still under the watchful eye of experienced mentors. This is where theory meets delivery—and where the best get their shot at full-time roles on Ravn’s client teams.

Selective by Design
We’re ruthless about quality, both in the people we admit and the standards we hold them to. Every applicant completes a rigorous technical interview, timed code challenges, and an aptitude screening. The program is more focused on quality over quantity. To date: 105 participants. 62 graduates. And only the best of the best earn a permanent seat at the table.

Nerdery Grads - Some of Ravn’s Best
Some of our most respected, highest-performing engineers—those now leading client projects, mentoring juniors, and setting the bar for technical excellence—got their start in The Nerdery. We’ve seen what happens when the right structure meets the right ambition, and we continue to invest in that formula.

Built to Scale with Clients
Every Nerdery cohort is mapped months in advance to ensure strategic alignment with forecasted client needs. That means when our clients grow, we’re already growing the talent they’ll need—with the stacks, soft skills, and Ravn culture baked in.

We’re building the next generation of elite contributors—and doing it in a way that keeps quality at the center.

We call it The Nerdery. You can call it your future team.