Common questions
What we hear most often. Missing something? Ask us.
- 01
What distinguishes Ignite from other trainee programs?
Focus on production-ready AI delivery, not generic consulting education. You graduate with one recognisable title (Ignite Certified Consultant) and a public portfolio of real AI deliveries. We sell the program — not the individual CV.
- 02
Can I switch tracks during the program?
You choose your track at first login after onboarding. You can change it yourself during the first 4 weeks. After that, the program lead handles changes on request.
- 03
What if my client project doesn't involve AI?
The program lead follows up with each Igniter quarterly on AI exposure. If client work doesn't provide enough exposure, you rotate or get a slot in the internal Ignite Case Pool.
- 04
How do you measure quality at graduation?
Continuous evidence gathering throughout the year, combined with oral defence in June. The rubric is explicit and published internally before start — you know from day one what you're assessed on.
- 05
What happens if I don't reach the level?
There is no 'fail' tier. If someone obviously cannot hold the Ignite standard, it becomes an HR conversation about consulting fit. Never a silver/gold stamp.
- 06
How much of my work time goes to the program?
About 3–4 hours per week of working time. Masterclass and courses have been moved to daytime (every other Wednesday), and dojo to late afternoon Thursday. Additionally there are two lab weekends (Saturday–Sunday) per year. It is a real commitment — and a distributed, predictable one.
- 07
Do I need OSS contributions before I start?
No. OSS contribution is a graduation requirement, not an admission requirement. We help you find your first contribution early in the program.
- 08
What if I leave Capgemini during the program?
Then you exit the program. You cannot complete Ignite outside Capgemini. Partial completion yields no certificate.
- 09
How physical is the program?
Four physical gatherings: Onboarding 31 Aug – 1 Sept (2 days), Lab weekend 5–6 Sept (Sat+Sun), Lab weekend 20–21 Feb (Sat+Sun), and Graduation in June (2 days). Masterclasses and other courses run on Teams with recordings. Some courses can also be done in pairs at the workplace.
- 10
How are Alliance partners selected?
Strategic clients with real AI ambition who are willing to release an employee for 10 months. Capgemini sales and program lead together. Alliance is an exclusive extension — not every client is a fit.
- 11
Can I choose my mentor?
The mentor is assigned by the program lead based on track, background and matching. You can request a change if the chemistry doesn't work.
- 12
Does the content change during the year?
Yes. The structure (6 phases, 42 courses) is fixed. Content is updated quarterly based on where the market is. Changes are documented with history so you know what you saw when you started.