8thlight

8th Light is known as a progressive and employee-centered employer within the software development and consulting industry. The company’s approach to employee development, collaborative work culture, and commitment to craftsmanship makes it an attractive workplace for software developers, designers, and tech consultants who value continuous learning and skill refinement. Let’s dive into what makes 8th Light a compelling employer, from its company culture and professional development opportunities to its dedication to diversity and work-life balance.

Core Values and Mission-Driven Work

As an employer, 8th Light is deeply rooted in the principles of software craftsmanship, which influence every aspect of its workplace culture. The company’s ethos is centered around the idea that software development is not just a job but a craft that requires dedication, precision, and ongoing improvement. This philosophy permeates the company’s day-to-day operations, ensuring that every team member feels they’re contributing to high-quality, meaningful work.

8th Light's core mission is to help organizations transform and grow through technology solutions that are scalable, efficient, and sustainable. This mission-driven approach attracts individuals who want to make a tangible impact through their work and are passionate about building lasting, adaptable software solutions. Employees are encouraged to bring their own ideas to the table, fostering a culture of innovation and ownership that’s appreciated by developers and consultants alike.

Comprehensive Onboarding and Apprenticeship Program

One of 8th Light’s standout features as an employer is its unique apprenticeship program, which serves as a cornerstone of its employee development philosophy. The company has developed a structured apprenticeship model that ensures new hires, particularly those who may be early in their careers or transitioning from other industries, receive thorough training in best practices, coding standards, and craftsmanship principles. This program lasts between three to six months and includes mentorship, pair programming, and project-based learning, making it a highly immersive experience.

The apprenticeship program is not limited to coding skills; it also emphasizes professional habits, collaborative problem-solving, and communication skills essential to client work. This approach allows new employees to start their careers at 8th Light with a comprehensive understanding of both technical practices and company values. By the time apprentices graduate, they have developed not only strong coding capabilities but also a deep understanding of client-centered software development. The program has earned 8th Light a reputation for cultivating skilled professionals who are well-prepared for the real-world challenges of software development.

Career Development and Continuous Learning

8th Light is committed to fostering a learning environment that encourages growth at all stages of an employee’s career. Beyond the apprenticeship program, employees have access to numerous professional development opportunities, including mentorship from senior staff, workshops, and access to educational resources. The company allocates a professional development budget for each employee, allowing team members to attend conferences, enroll in online courses, and purchase books or other learning materials. This support is especially valued by employees as it enables them to stay on top of the latest industry trends and technological advancements.

The company also supports skill diversification and cross-functional learning. Employees are encouraged to explore different areas of development, including frontend, backend, mobile, and even UX design, which enables them to broaden their expertise and adapt to various project needs. This approach not only enhances individual skill sets but also improves team adaptability, as employees are equipped to tackle a wide range of technical challenges.

Collaborative and Inclusive Culture

8th Light fosters a collaborative culture where teamwork, transparency, and communication are emphasized. The company practices pair programming, where two developers work together on the same task, allowing for knowledge sharing, skill transfer, and better-quality code. Pair programming also facilitates a highly collaborative work environment that encourages open discussions, feedback, and peer learning. This practice has become a core part of 8th Light’s culture, helping build trust and camaraderie within teams.

In addition to fostering collaboration, 8th Light is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. The company actively works to create a supportive environment for people from diverse backgrounds, with a focus on creating equitable opportunities for all. Their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is evident in hiring practices, team dynamics, and employee resource groups that provide support and advocacy for underrepresented employees. DEI initiatives are an ongoing priority, and employees often participate in workshops and discussions on these topics, contributing to a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

8th Light values work-life balance and strives to create a flexible environment that respects employees’ personal lives. The company offers remote work options and flexible schedules, recognizing that individuals work best under different conditions. Many employees have the option to work from home or from one of 8th Light’s offices, depending on their preferences and project requirements. This flexibility has been particularly beneficial for employees during the shift to remote work over recent years, and 8th Light has adapted its policies to support this change.

The company also respects employees’ time outside of work, encouraging them to take regular breaks, use vacation time, and avoid burnout. Employees appreciate the emphasis on work-life balance, which helps maintain a high level of engagement and satisfaction.

Mentorship and Supportive Management

8th Light’s approach to management is rooted in mentorship and support rather than hierarchy and rigid oversight. Team leads and senior staff are viewed more as mentors and guides than traditional managers. They are highly accessible, willing to provide guidance, and invested in the professional growth of their teams. The mentorship-oriented management style aligns with the company’s emphasis on craftsmanship, as it enables leaders to pass down knowledge and best practices to more junior team members.

This approach fosters a supportive environment where employees feel encouraged to seek help, ask questions, and learn from others. Managers and mentors also provide regular feedback, which is seen as constructive and aimed at helping individuals develop their skills and advance in their careers. This feedback culture is highly valued by employees, as it allows them to understand their progress and areas for improvement in a positive, nonjudgmental manner.

Strong Community Engagement and Thought Leadership

8th Light is known for its active engagement in the wider software development community. The company encourages employees to participate in conferences, write blog posts, contribute to open-source projects, and engage in community events. Employees often present at industry conferences, sharing their expertise and insights on software craftsmanship, agile practices, and other technical topics. This involvement not only benefits employees by providing networking and professional development opportunities, but it also reinforces 8th Light’s commitment to advancing the craft of software development.

Additionally, 8th Light maintains a blog where employees contribute articles on technical topics, software best practices, and insights into their personal experiences in the industry. This platform allows employees to showcase their expertise, contribute to the company’s thought leadership, and enhance their professional reputations. The company’s commitment to community engagement strengthens its reputation as a place where employees are encouraged to grow, share, and contribute to the industry.

Employee Benefits and Compensation

8th Light offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package. Employees receive health, dental, and vision insurance, along with 401(k) matching and other standard benefits. The company’s benefits extend to mental health resources, reflecting a holistic approach to employee well-being. Employees also appreciate the emphasis on wellness and work-life balance, as well as the flexibility in work arrangements.

The company has a transparent approach to compensation, ensuring that salaries are competitive within the industry and fairly distributed based on experience, role, and contribution. This transparency fosters a sense of trust between employees and management, reinforcing the company's commitment to fairness and equity.

Conclusion

8th Light is a distinguished employer in the software industry due to its strong emphasis on craftsmanship, continuous learning, and employee well-being. The company provides a nurturing environment for software developers, designers, and consultants who are passionate about honing their skills and making a meaningful impact. From the apprenticeship program to the flexible work arrangements, 8th Light has built a workplace where individuals are encouraged to grow, collaborate, and bring their best selves to work.

The company’s dedication to diversity, community engagement, and a supportive management style make it a great place to work for those who value professional development and a people-centered culture. For individuals seeking a career with purpose, mentorship, and a focus on excellence in software development, 8th Light offers a fulfilling and enriching environment.