By Stephan Peck
The websites you visit daily—maybe even hourly—are made possible through an interconnected technology stack that includes HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. If that just sounded like a bunch of mumbo jumbo, you’re not alone. According to code.org, fewer than 50,000 graduates received degrees in computer science in 2017. Meanwhile, businesses are currently seeking over 500,000 computing positions in the US.
Do you see the problem?
Software development is crucial to our modern lifestyles. We feel its effects every day.
Your glitchy Snapchat app? Some software developer’s fault.
The agonizing red light that won’t turn green? Some software developer’s design.
The annoying Duo login system that always seems to strike at the wrong time? Okay, you get the picture. I don’t want to get expelled.
To all college students—now is the time to experiment with different fields of study, and coding should be one of them.
This article discusses several aspects of software development that you may not have considered before; namely, (1) the impact of coding, (2) the need for coders, and (3) the first steps for those who want to learn more.
“Computer science is about logic, problem solving, and creativity . . . It teaches students how to think differently about problems they are trying to solve in any context.”
The Impact of Coding
As noted earlier, technology and software development play an integral role in our modern world. At the mention of “coding,” one might imagine musky basement offices drenched in the stench of Cheetos and sweat. This could not be further from the truth.
As reported by codefellows.org, “CNN’s Top 10 Best Jobs in America involve coding.” Jobs that require coding are plentiful, and the demand for such jobs is only increasing. You need to at least learn basic coding skills now to avoid being left behind in your future career. You may find yourself working with a team of developers, and even a basic knowledge will give you a leg up to speak the language. Many schools have done a great disservice to their students by failing to include some type of basic coding class in their general education requirements. Even though your school may not require coding, each student has a personal responsibility to learn the skills necessary for career success.
Need for Coders
The need for software developers is considerable. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected that by 2028, out of the approximately 890,000 new STEM jobs, 600,000 will be in computing—nearly 67% of the total. These future jobs represent a huge opportunity for our generation. Coding skills offer quality employment that will impact every workplace.
Software development is as lucrative as it is impactful. According to data from Comparably, the average yearly starting salary for a software developer is over $100,000, while the average entry-level salary for other professions is less than half that amount.
“Application software developers will be the hardest position to fill, with more than a quarter of a million vacancies by 2026.”
How to Gain Coding Skills
Whether you want to create a career in software development, keep up with your coding coworkers, or simply test the waters, you can start learning right away.
Most schools offer basic coding classes. Look for classes under the CS (computer science) or IS (information systems) sections. If these classes are not conducive to your schedule, there are many online resources as well.
W3schools.com touts itself as “the world’s largest web developer site” and is chock-full of step-by-step tutorials to help you get a feel for software development. For a beginner, it’s the perfect place to start.
A Final Word
Whether you enjoy coding or not, it impacts each one of our lives. As we become more technologically entwined, coding will become even more important. A basic understanding of coding will become necessary to work in most fields, just as literacy has become a necessary modern skill.
It is imperative that you enroll into at least a basic coding class as soon as possible. If you are not in school, investigate the free online options discussed above. For my final, tacky words of advice: learn coding, as your future may very well depend on it.