Do you enjoy coding? Do you like to learn new languages?
If you answered YES to these questions, then becoming a computer programmer might be the right fit for you!
What do programmers do?
Programmers write and edit code for computer programs and mobile apps, and also fix, maintain, and secure systems.
Photo by KOBU Agency on UnsplashA computer programmer's job includes the following tasks:
Write new code and test it to make sure it works
Edit and update existing code for improvements
Fix coding mistakes and bugs
Create guides to help users and other programmers navigate programs
What are some types of programmers?
Tasks will differ based on the type of programmer you choose to be.
A programmer can be any of the following:
Web developer — creates and maintains websites
Software developer — builds and maintains software programs
Full stack developer — codes on both the client and server sides of a system
App developer — creates and maintains mobile apps
Cloud engineer — builds and maintains IT cloud infrastructure
How much do programmers make?
Programmers make a wide range of salaries in different countries.
In 🦅 The United States 🦅 , the median pay as of 2021 is $93,000.
In 🍁 Canada 🍁, the median pay as of 2022 is $71,900.
A more accurate amount depends on your specialty, level of education and experience, location, and company.
How do you become a programmer?
To become a programmer, first, you need to decide the type of programmer you want to be, then apply for jobs with a portfolio demonstrating your programming language skills (check out these Bytes on job hunting and building a portfolio).
It's critical to learn a number of computer programming languages, such as CSS, HTML, Java, Python, SQL, etc.Learn a few and become an expert in at least 1 or 2 programming languages that are most relevant to the type of job you're looking for.
You can do this in three ways:
👉 Want to know more about coding bootcamps? Check out these Bytes from Michelle Wong, Rumie's Front End Developer:
Are bootcamps for coding worth it? Everything you need to know
How I survived a 12-week coding bootcamp...and how you can, too!
Is this career path a good fit for me?
Keep these qualities in mind as you consider a career as a computer programmer include:
Enjoys coding
Continuously improves programming skills
Doesn't mind working on the computer for long hours
Has strong memory and logic skills
Is persistent in solving problems
Can communicate well and work in a team
Good at time management
Pick the future programmer
Suzy can work well independently but she's happy to explain technical things to others.
She gets a thrill out of finding the right answer to something and keeps trying until she finds it.
Eric is great with people.
He loves to stay on his feet and be on the go.
He is known for remembering random facts and can solve a Rubik's cube in minutes.
Quiz
Who would make a better programmer long-term?
Take Action
Are you ready to become a computer programmer?
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