Should I be a computer programmer?

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!

Programmers write and edit code for computer programs and mobile apps, and also fix, maintain, and secure systems.

Photo by KOBU Agency on Unsplash

A 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

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

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.

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:

1. Obtain a college degree or diploma in Computer/Data Science

2. Enroll in a coding bootcamp

3. Teach yourself with resources available in books and online

👉 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!

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

• 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.

Are you ready to become a computer programmer?

Photo by Danial Igdery on Unsplash