IoT & Microcontroller Bootcamp: ESP32 with Arduino C++ and MicroPython
Designed for further education students and mid-career engineers, this bootcamp develops practical IoT engineering skills from the ground up. Working through six structured weeks, students progress from IoT fundamentals and ESP32 hardware architecture through Arduino C++ and MicroPython programming, sensor and actuator integration, Wi-Fi and MQTT communication, cloud architecture, and IoT security.
Each week culminates in a 10-question assessed quiz to reinforce learning. Practical sessions use the Wokwi online simulator — removing hardware cost barriers while maintaining hands-on, circuit-level learning. No expensive equipment needed; everything runs in your browser.
🌟 Black Pioneer Integration
The course features contributions from Black scientists and engineers who shaped the technology landscape, integrating representation and cultural relevance throughout — ensuring diverse learners see themselves in STEM.
By the end of this six-week journey, you'll have the skills to design real IoT systems, understand hardware constraints, write embedded code, and make architectural decisions for production deployments. Whether you're a student exploring further education in engineering or a mid-career professional looking to transition into IoT, this bootcamp provides the foundation you need.
Learning Objectives
Explain IoT system architecture and identify appropriate protocols and hardware for real-world applications Describe the ESP32 microcontroller's hardware capabilities including GPIO, ADC, PWM, and power modes Write functional Arduino C++ sketches for digital and analogue I/O, PWM, and Serial communication Write MicroPython scripts using the machine module for GPIO, ADC, I2C, and interrupt-driven input Integrate common IoT sensors (DHT22, capacitive soil moisture) and actuators (OLED, relay) in simulated circuits Establish Wi-Fi connectivity and implement the MQTT publish/subscribe protocol with structured JSON payloads Describe edge, fog, and cloud processing layers and select appropriate processing locations for given requirements Apply IoT security principles including the OWASP IoT Top 10, TLS encryption, and device authentication Design a complete end-to-end IoT system architecture incorporating reliability patterns and documentation Identify career pathways in IoT engineering including TinyML, IIoT, and IoT security specialisms
Prerequisites
Basic computer literacy (ability to use a web browser and text editor) Basic mathematics (algebra and units of measurement) No prior programming or electronics experience required
