Unfortunately, doing something like this doesn't negate the need for the education... Sure he might have some skills but, even he admits to needing much to learn. There is no short-cut to going to school to learn how to do it. So many kids today, My 20 year old daughter included dropped out of robot science school cause it was too slow... She wanted gratification now... Doesn't work like that in the real world, sorry. You want the 'big bucks', or at least bigger bucks, and a longer term career and not just a job, you need to put in the time to become great at your job and not just another 'one' at the wheel like the others. That is actually how I've made it through all of the layoffs in the industry myself. The software engineering field especially is very evil and cut-throat and they love you today and fire you tomorrow.
It proves you have drive but, get the education. If you're lucky, someone will hire you on as an apprentice or intern for training and help or pay for your training, that will be huge... That could have been your goal. If they do, very sweet and grats. Or this might even get you some grants for school (free $$$).
But good luck with whatever happens. Just being in the field myself (software), I really wouldn't hold my breath for something huge. What I would hope for realistically right now is visibility, credibility and the simple ability to be able to put your name on that already as your work for an example. It's a step up for job interviews down the road and for school loans, etc. And it's huge! You might get a job, but I wouldn't expect it to be directly from this. But it might help you win a job in the end of everything. Like I said, this is a VERY cut-throat industry... Just short of shooting your way through the doors. VERY short...
