Trainings

Category: Tech

From Java to .NET — Helping Varian’s Development Team Reskill with Confidence

When Varian’s software teams went through a reorganisation, one challenge stood out: a
group of highly experienced Java developers needed to shift into .NET development to
support a new technology stack. Varian, part of Siemens Healthineers, develops advanced
cancer care solutions and their software plays an important role in improving treatment
outcomes.

Building a Practical Learning Sprint

Splended designed a .NET learning sprint combining theory, hands-on coding, and guided
practice. To lead the training, we brought in Michal Kudanowski, a freelance trainer with
deep real-world experience in .NET and C#.

Michal’s approach was straightforward: keep everything practical and connected to the
developers’ daily work. He introduced each concept through examples, then immediately
turned it into an exercise. The team particularly valued his ability to adjust on the fly moving
from “copying code from the screen” to sharing exercises through version control so
participants could focus on understanding rather than typing.

What Worked

  • Developers described the sessions as “super-practical” and “exactly what I needed to
  • start developing with C#.”
  • Michal’s clear explanations and friendly style helped even those from front-end
  • backgrounds engage fully.
  • The mix of discussion and coding made complex topics: dependency injection,
  • middleware, security feel relevant and usable right away.

What We Learned

Time is always limited, especially when a team has mixed backgrounds. Participants
suggested adding more structured hands-on exercises and written task descriptions for
independent practice, feedback we’ll use to refine future learning sprints.

The Outcome

By the end of the program, Varian’s developers had learned the fundamentals of .NET and
had also begun to apply those skills in their real projects.
The re-skilling initiative showed how the right mix of structure, flexibility, and expert
guidance can make a technology shift achievable.

Marjut Sadeharju

“In C++, confidence is arrogance”

We’re thrilled to share a story that highlights the power of collaboration and a passion for learning. At Splended, we take pride in delivering tailored, cutting-edge learning experiences. In this instance, we teamed up with Mavericks to boost the C++ skills of Varian’s software development team.

Did you know that in the heart of Helsinki city Varian, a Siemens Healthineers company, develops the world’s leading radio-therapy treatment planning systems and cancer treatment solutions? Varian Finland currently employs around 300 people of more than 30 nationalities. They envision a world without fear of cancer and work passionately to develop and deliver easy-to-use, efficient oncology solutions. This company prioritizes upskilling their software development professionals. Their goal? To enhance their team’s C++ programming skills—a crucial element in their development toolkit.

Collaboration formed the cornerstone of this transformation. From initial discussions to understanding Varian’s unique needs, we were partners at every stage. Mavericks joined us, armed with not one, but two seasoned trainers adept in different facets of C++. Aki Reijonen and Pekka Mikkola, both seasoned development specialists, brought prior training experience to the table.

This bespoke learning experience was tailored to the team’s diverse needs. Sessions were meticulously designed, seamlessly blending modern learning methodologies. Our trainers orchestrated an immersive and comprehensive learning journey. Rather than the typical training format, participants engaged in a custom project tailored to practise real working life programming skills.

The team found immense value in these sessions, noting the meaningful activities that accelerated their learning process. “Trainers were highly professional, and the exercises were approached superbly,” remarked one team member. “Having actual solutions distributed to participants created a ‘production-like’ environment, enhancing our learning experience.”

With the presence of two coaches, this approach was smoothly executed using Splended’s learning designs. Mavericks trainers weren’t just educators; they ignited inspiration. Their expertise simplified complex concepts, ensuring accessibility and engagement for all, regardless of prior C++ experience. Participants were driven to explore further, spurred on by curiosity.

The trainers created a supportive and secure learning environment, tailoring tasks to suit the team’s skill levels. “I appreciated the trainers finding suitable topics for us after each session. Every session felt enriching, and the concepts were approachable,” shared another team member. “Practices were excellent, and the support provided during exercises was invaluable.”

This story is a testament to the transformative influence of collaboration and modern learning methodologies. It’s a journey that has armed Varian’s software development team with the expertise to navigate the intricacies of C++.

Reflecting on their experience, one seasoned developer remarked, “In C++, confidence is arrogance.” The team at Varian remains committed to continuous learning.

Stay tuned for more inspiring narratives of innovation and collaborative learning!

Marjut Sadeharju