From tech graduate to pro: MCB's real-world prep

Starting a career in tech can be daunting. For recent graduates, the gap between university and real-world application often feels overwhelming, especially when navigating a new workplace.

At MCB, we believe that the right guidance and environment can turn fresh graduates into confident professionals. That’s why we created the MCB Tech Graduate Programme - a launchpad designed to equip young talents with the skills, mentorship, and real-world experience they need to thrive.

A career-ready approach from day one

Unlike traditional entry-level jobs where graduates spend months on minor tasks, MCB’s approach is different. From their very first day, participants in the programme work on projects that shape MCB’s technology and services. They don’t just observe—they contribute meaningfully, gaining hands-on experience with real banking innovations.

Nick McKenzie, Engineering Chapter Lead at MCB, explains that this real-world exposure is crucial in accelerating their learning. He highlights how the programme pushes graduates to take on real responsibilities early on, rather than simply shadowing experienced professionals. “We immerse our graduates in real-world situations as soon as possible because that’s where they learn the fastest,” he says. He also adds that the transition happens quicker than most expect. “It’s been great to see our grads go from building their first simple project to working on large, complex applications like Juice in just a few months.”

By placing graduates in an environment where their skills are immediately put to use, the programme ensures that they develop the confidence and expertise needed to grow in their careers.

A supportive network: Mentorship & coaching

Stepping into the industry can be intimidating, but having the right support makes all the difference. At MCB, every tech graduate is paired with a mentor—an experienced professional who provides both technical and professional guidance. These mentors, including senior engineers, data scientists, and product designers, help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry expectations.

Nicholas Hurdoyal, Data Lead at MCB, describes how mentorship plays a key role in shaping the graduates’ careers. “Incumbents in this role have embraced the challenge wholeheartedly—learning and applying core principles in real-world scenarios while also developing essential business acumen, a key factor in becoming an effective data scientist,” he explains. He also emphasises that this process is not passive but rather an active transformation. “Through mentoring, structured learning, and hands-on project experience, our tech graduates rapidly take on responsibilities aligned with their skills and eagerness to contribute.”

This mentorship model fosters an environment where learning is not only encouraged but also deeply embedded in daily work. The result is a cohort of young professionals who feel empowered to push their boundaries and take ownership of their growth.

Beyond technical skills: Developing future leaders

While technical expertise is at the core of the programme, professional development goes beyond just coding and data analysis. Participants also receive training in areas like communication, problem-solving, and leadership, ensuring they grow into well-rounded professionals who can collaborate effectively and drive innovation.

Shaleena Ramanah, a 2023 graduate of the programme, recalls how this holistic approach helped shape her career. “My technical skills were honed through regular technical sessions, coaching with leaders from the Data BU, and exposure to real-world, complex datasets,” she shares. She also reflects on the impact of professional development opportunities. “Beyond the technical aspects, the Dale Carnegie workshops helped me improve my networking skills. Cross-collaboration with the Business Banking department also gave me a better understanding of how banks can support local businesses.”

Today, as a Data Scientist at MCB, she applies her expertise to AI-driven projects, including transaction mining using Natural Language Processing and optimizing marketing strategies through customer segmentation. She believes that the programme’s emphasis on both technical and business understanding has been instrumental in her success.

Real work, real impact

Graduates who join the programme are not just learners—they are active contributors to MCB’s digital transformation. Whether working in software engineering, artificial intelligence, or quality assurance, they gain hands-on experience that directly impacts the bank’s technological advancements.

Warren Jatteesing, Quality Assurance Chapter Lead at MCB, describes how the role of QA Engineers has evolved and why it presents a valuable opportunity for graduates. “By joining our Tech Graduate Programme as a QA Engineer, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from a diverse group of senior mentors who will guide you in shaping your career path,” he says. He also highlights the shift in the field. “The role, once known for manual testing, has now evolved into automation testing, allowing graduates to work on more advanced and impactful projects.”

This hands-on approach ensures that graduates gain industry-relevant skills and contribute meaningfully to large-scale projects. By working directly with sponsors, internal customers, and developers, they develop a deep understanding of the end-to-end process, preparing them for long-term careers in tech.

Start your career with MCB’s Tech Graduate Programme

Choosing the right first job can define a career path. At MCB, tech graduates don’t just gain experience—they build a foundation for future success. The programme offers a unique opportunity to work on real projects, learn from top industry professionals, and grow in a dynamic, innovation-driven environment.

For graduates eager to step into the world of tech with confidence, the MCB Tech Graduate Programme is the ideal starting point.

👉 Take the first step in your career. Apply today!

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