Why did we make the switch?
Because your success deserves more than a refund—it deserves a real future in tech.
For years, Yellow Tail Tech offered a Tuition Reimbursement Guarantee to show how much we believed in our programs.
But over time, we saw that the safety net sometimes had the opposite effect. It made some students less committed, treating the program like a “try and see” option instead of a life-changing opportunity. That’s why, in early 2025, we made the shift.
From Refunds to Results: Why This Change Matters
Our guarantee was designed to remove financial fear. But in practice, it sometimes removed urgency, too. When students knew they could get their money back, they didn’t always go all in. And success in tech, especially for career changers, requires full commitment, not just enrollment.
We noticed that some students began approaching the program passively. They attended classes inconsistently, delayed their job search, or skipped coaching sessions. Not because they didn’t care, but because the guarantee made it feel like there was less at stake. And we know from experience: the students who succeed are the ones who stay engaged, take initiative, and follow through.
That’s why we made a shift toward something better—a program that encourages commitment, not hesitation.
When a Safety Net Becomes a Stumbling Block
We created the Tuition Reimbursement Guarantee with the right intentions. It was never a “no questions asked” refund. In fact, it came with clear requirements: students had to participate actively, complete projects, take tests, and commit to the job search process.
As stated in our student agreement:
“Starting or transitioning into a career in the tech industry involves focused and consistent effort. We put a lot of effort into helping you make that transition and ask for the same commitment from you.”
But even with these terms in place, we saw a pattern emerge: some students enrolled with a Plan B mindset.
They thought, “If it doesn’t work, I’ll just ask for a refund.”
That fallback made it easier to miss sessions, delay assignments, or skip out on job applications. And unfortunately, in tech, halfway efforts don’t lead to high-paying jobs.
We realized: if we wanted our students to fully commit, we had to model that same level of commitment in return. That’s why we created something better.
A Smarter, Stronger Path: The Career Success Commitment Program
Our Career Success Commitment Program is built around one idea:
Let’s stop planning for failure and start engineering success.
We designed this new approach based on everything we learned from our most successful students. Those who landed six-figure jobs weren’t in it halfway. They showed up. They pushed through challenges. They stayed consistent and coachable.
This program isn’t about “what happens if you don’t get a job.” Instead, it’s centered on the success you’ll achieve when you do—because that’s where we focus our energy. Over the course of 18 months, we provide continuous support, coaching, and resources to ensure you’re fully prepared to land the job you deserve.
From resume building and interview practice to personalized job search strategies, we work alongside you until you successfully secure your first tech role.
Let’s focus on your success and how we’re going to help you get there.
What makes this program different?
- It prioritizes accountability over refunds.
- It centers on personal coaching and real-world milestones.
- It fosters a strong community of motivated peers.
- It’s focused on helping you build a career, not just finish a course.
What It Takes to Succeed: Our Career Success Commitment Criteria
This isn’t just a new name. It’s a clear roadmap. And for those willing to put in the work, the path is well defined.
To qualify for full support under the Career Success Commitment Program, students agree to:
- Be at least 18 years old
(Alabama and Nebraska residents: 19 or older; Mississippi residents: 21 or older) - Be eligible to work in the United States and be fluent in English
- Pass any background checks required by potential employers
- Maintain 90 percent class attendance
- Complete all assigned projects with mentor approval
- Score at least 70 percent on all quizzes and tests
- Obtain RHCSA and Security+ certifications within the prescribed timeline
- Accept and apply guidance from our Career Success Team
- Complete the apprenticeship according to company guidelines
- Attend at least ten technical interviews within six months
- Document their job search efforts
- Be willing to accept a Linux System Administration job paying at least $76,000
(Our graduates average $89,159 in their first year)
This isn’t a vague checklist. It’s a proven pathway. If you show up and do the work, we’ll help you land the job that changes your life.
Why This Change Is a Win for Students
We didn’t move away from the guarantee to make things harder,we did it to help serious students win.
Since launching the Career Success Commitment Program, we’ve seen:
- Higher student engagement
- Faster job placements
- Stronger accountability and structure
- Greater confidence in interviews and applications
- Positive feedback from employers who hire our graduates
This shift is about creating the environment where success isn’t just possible, it’s expected.
Real Support for Real Outcomes
The truth is, IT isn’t a field where you can wing it. If you want to make six figures in tech, you need more than video lectures and checklists. You need structure. You need a coach. You need a team that keeps you moving even when things get tough.
That’s exactly what this new program provides.
And most importantly, you’re not alone. When you join Yellow Tail Tech, you’re surrounded by:
- Expert instructors
- Career mentors
- Real-world practice opportunities
- A tight-knit community of peers
- A step-by-step plan to land your first role
The Career Success Commitment Program was built to give you everything you need to succeed, as long as you bring your commitment to the table, too.
It’s Not About Refunds, It’s About Results
We moved on from the Tuition Reimbursement Guarantee because you deserve more than a fallback plan. You deserve a clear, guided, results-driven path to success, and that’s exactly what this new program delivers.
So if you’re ready to go all-in on yourself, we’re here to go all-in with you.
This is your moment. And we’ve got your back.
Ready to start your tech career with confidence?
Book a 10-minute intro call today and let’s talk about how we can help you launch your future together.
