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Thoughtworks University: Preparing future leaders

Thoughtworks University (TWU) is our immersive in-person training program held in Pune, India, designed for graduates and career changers, equipping them with the technical skills, consulting mindset, and real-world experience needed to succeed in the industry. It serves as the foundation for a strong first-year experience, ensuring participants are fully prepared for their journey at Thoughtworks.

 

The journey begins with an intensive 4 week learning experience, followed by a full year of structured training, mentorship, and hands-on client work. More than just an onboarding program, TWU helps participants build global connections, grow professionally and develop as future leaders in technology.

 

Since its inception in 2005, more than 4,000 Thoughtworkers have gone through Thoughtworks University, forming lasting connections with colleagues from around the world.

Thoughtworks University: Preparing future leaders

Thoughtworks University (TWU) is our immersive in-person training program held in Pune, India, designed for graduates and career changers, equipping them with the technical skills, consulting mindset, and real-world experience needed to succeed in the industry. It serves as the foundation for a strong first-year experience, ensuring participants are fully prepared for their journey at Thoughtworks.

 

The journey begins with an intensive 4 week learning experience, followed by a full year of structured training, mentorship, and hands-on client work. More than just an onboarding program, TWU helps participants build global connections, grow professionally and develop as future leaders in technology.

 

Since its inception in 2005, more than 4,000 Thoughtworkers have gone through Thoughtworks University, forming lasting connections with colleagues from around the world.

What makes our first-year experience different?
 
Thoughtworks University (TWU) is where your journey as a Thoughtworker begins. In this video, Jade Daubney, Global Head of First-Year Experience, shares how this immersive program prepares graduates and career changers with the skills, mindset, and hands-on experience to make an impact from day one.

Your journey starts here

Immersive, in-person training

TWU begins with an intensive four-week, in-person training in Pune, India, where trainees develop technical skills, consulting expertise and a problem-solving mindset. The program covers software development, distributed systems, AI and agile methodologies, providing a strong foundation for a career at Thoughtworks.

A full year of structured learning

Beyond the initial training, trainees continue their development through mentorship, guided sessions, and real-world client projects, ensuring a smooth transition into consulting and software development.

A global network of support

TWU fosters collaboration with peers, mentors, and industry leaders from around the world. This diverse, international community helps shape trainees into confident, skilled professionals ready to make an impact.

How we get to know you

What to expect during the application process: The Thoughtworks University journey starts with your application. While the process may vary slightly by region, we follow a structured, candidate-focused approach.

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Meet our alumni

Lais Gomes

Lais Gomes

Tech Lead - Brazil

 

TWU class of 2018 (Cohort 60)

 

Lais joined Thoughtworks University in 2018 as part of Cohort 60, one of the early cohorts in China. From the start, she embraced the opportunity to grow, learn and connect across cultures. That experience helped shape her technical mindset and leadership journey. Today, she holds multiple roles at Thoughtworks, as Lead Consultant, Account Technical Principal, Tech Lead, and Engineering Manager, demonstrating how the foundation built at TWU continues to influence her career.

Shweta Nayak

Shweta Nayak

Europe Head of Operational Excellence - UK

 

TWU class of 2009 (Cohort 14)

 

Starting her journey with Thoughtworks University in 2009, Shweta quickly discovered the power of global collaboration, intense learning, and meaningful connections. Later, as a TWU trainer, she found the clarity and courage to transition from development into leadership roles. That experience taught her she didn’t need to fit a mold—she could define her own path. TWU gave her the resilience and belief to say yes to bold opportunities and shape the leader she is today.

Laura Bassani

Laura Bassani

Consultant Developer - UK

 

Thoughtworks University gave me all the tools necessary to start my first project with confidence. In my experience, the program offers the best setup to learn and practice. A safe environment, where you can learn, make mistakes and reflect. The learnings were full of experiences to improve our skills as technologists. Everybody was very supportive and made me feel very welcomed. 

Frequently asked questions

  • Thoughtworks University starts with a 4-week in-person training in Pune, India. Participation on-site is required for all trainees. This immersive experience is followed by structured learning and mentorship throughout your first year at Thoughtworks.

  • Thoughtworks University (TWU) is an immersive in-person training program designed for graduates and career changers. It equips trainees with the technical skills, consulting mindset, and real-world experience needed to succeed in the tech industry. TWU is the first step in a year-long journey of learning, mentorship, and hands-on client work at Thoughtworks.

  • No. Thoughtworks welcomes candidates from all academic backgrounds. However, for software developer roles, candidates should have working knowledge of at least one object-oriented programming language. For non-developer roles, different technical skill sets may be required.

  • To join Thoughtworks University, you must first apply for a graduate-level role on Thoughtworks’ careers page, be contacted by a recruiter, or be referred by another Thoughtworker. If you successfully complete the hiring process, you will automatically be enrolled in TWU as part of your onboarding, whether you are a recent graduate or a career changer.

  • No. TWU is fully covered by Thoughtworks as part of your onboarding and training. Thoughtworks provides, flights and accommodation for the in-person training, transportation between the hotel and office, meals during the program. Candidates, however, are responsible for their own travel documents, such as passports or vaccinations.

  • Since the entire program is conducted in English, you’ll need an intermediate to advanced level of proficiency in both written and spoken English. This ensures that you can fully engage with the training, collaborate with your peers, and thrive in a global learning environment.

  • After the initial in-person training, participants return to their home regions to join a client project. TWU continues with structured monthly learning sessions throughout the first year to support ongoing development.

  • No. While TWU covers technical learning, it is also designed to develop consulting skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. Participants work in a collaborative environment that mirrors real client engagements.

  • At Thoughtworks, career paths are flexible. Some technologists follow a traditional route, while others explore different directions. TWU alumni have gone on to become leaders across various disciplines. Thoughtworks provides the resources, mentorship, and opportunities for career growth.

Explore what a career at Thoughtworks looks like