Is Coding a Good Career Choice?

The tech world is growing rapidly, and coders are making it all work. But, like any career, people often ask if it pays well. Is coding a lucrative field?

The short answer is yes!

I first encountered computers and programming during my bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering in the early 1980s. At the time, I wasn’t particularly interested in computers or programming. However, I developed a passion for programming after a couple of years. This newfound interest made me decide to pursue a career in computer science. I completed my master’s and doctorate in the field, finishing my PhD in the early 1990s.

Back then, programming and computer science were often considered less prestigious than electrical engineering. I vividly recall conversing with one of my professors after completing my PhD. He said, “You were a good electrical engineer, but switching to computer science has set your career back. Your chances of success are slim.” This opinion wasn’t unique; many others shared similar views.

But I wasn’t swayed by these sentiments. I firmly believed that computer science was a field with great potential—and time proved me right.

The 1990s witnessed explosive growth in the computer and software industry, creating many billionaires. However, when the market crashed in 2001, many assumed the field was finished. When I advised people to learn programming, they often dismissed the idea, believing the tech bubble had burst and the industry would never recover. But I was confident it would rebound, and it did—stronger and more impactful than ever—creating wealth and prosperity on an unprecedented scale.

Since then, countless people have asked me about coding as a career. They’re curious about job prospects, market trends, and earning potential in the coding field. Now that generative AI seems to be changing the landscape, and big companies are laying off thousands of programmers, the number of queries is increasing, and people are asking the same question again: Is coding a good career choice? I didn’t waver in my belief then, and I stand by it even more firmly today—yes, coding is a great career choice and will only flourish even more.

I had my reasons back then, and I have my reasons now. The core situation hasn’t changed; only the tools and technologies have—and that’s always been the case. That’s just how it works.

In these conversations, I usually begin with a rhetorical question: Is there a better field to choose? It is very hard to find a better occupation in terms of the compensation package, number of openings, and growth projections.

Coding job market—Data-driven insights

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics is the most reliable source for employment data. According to their statistics, in 2023, computer and software-related occupations employed 4,804,840 people in the United States, which accounts for just over 3% of total employment. Of these, more than 2.2 million are in coding-related jobs, earning an average annual salary of $104,420. In contrast, the average annual salary for all other occupations is around $48,060.

There is a strong demand for coding skills across various industries. The Bureau projects that computer programmer jobs will grow by 11% from 2023 to 2033, resulting in about 356,700 job openings yearly due to growth and turnover. This growth rate is much higher than the average for all occupations, indicating a robust job market with plenty of opportunities.

Everyday applications of computers

Computers have become essential to our daily lives, helping us manage information and perform various tasks. They assist with everything from simple calculations, like adding two numbers, to more complex activities, such as online shopping, home automation, and creating virtual reality systems.

Computers are widely used for communication through social media, emails, and instant messaging. They also provide entertainment, serving as platforms for gaming, music and video production, and streaming content. In the field of education, computers facilitate learning, research, and collaboration, supporting activities in classrooms, libraries, and online environments.

In the business world, computers are crucial for tasks like accounting, inventory management, marketing, and customer relationship management. In health care, they are vital in patient monitoring, maintaining electronic medical records, and medical imaging. It’s hard to think of any field that doesn’t rely on computers and programming.

Demystifying the developer career

Now, the question is why that is so? To understand that, we must first understand the nature of software and coding.

Overview of coding as a career

Coding has evolved from a niche skill to one of the most sought-after career paths across industries. It is no longer confined to the tech sector; coding is now a foundational skill used in healthcare, finance, education, entertainment, and manufacturing. The demand for coding expertise rises as technology becomes more embedded in every aspect of life.

A career in coding offers flexibility, creativity, and constant learning. Coders can work in various roles, from web and app development to data science, automation, and cybersecurity. The broad field allows individuals to specialize in areas that match their interests and strengths, whether creating user-friendly websites, developing cutting-edge software, or building AI-driven solutions.

The key coding skills in demand

The key coding disciplines include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Web development: This area focuses on building websites and web applications. It has two main parts:
  • Frontend development: This is about creating the parts of a website that users see and interact with, using languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
  • Backend development: This focuses on the server, where data is stored, processed, and sent back to support what users see and do on a website. Common languages used are Python, Node.js, PHP, and Java.
• Software development: This involves creating software applications for computers and mobile devices. Software developers build everything from simple programs to complex systems, often using languages like Java, C#, and C++.
• Game development: This field focuses on designing and creating video games. Game developers use programming languages like C++, C#, and JavaScript, along with game engines like Unity and Unreal Engine.
• Data science and analytics: This involves using programming to analyze and understand complex data. Common languages in this field are Python and R, along with tools for data visualization and machine learning.
• Mobile app development: This area specializes in creating apps for mobile devices. Developers typically use Swift for iOS apps and Kotlin or Java for Android apps.
• DevOps: This combines software development and IT operations to improve software delivery. Tools and languages used in DevOps include Docker and Kubernetes.
• Cybersecurity: This field is about protecting systems and data from attacks. Cybersecurity professionals use coding skills to create security tools and protocols, often using languages like Python, Java, and C.

Salary speaks: It’s a spectrum

While the coding field offers good earning potential, salaries can vary depending on several factors:

• Experience: Entry-level coders can expect a comfortable starting salary, but experienced developers with specialized skills can command significantly more.
• Location: Tech hubs like Silicon Valley offer higher salaries than other regions.
• Specialization: Certain areas of coding, like data science or machine learning, come with a premium pay tag.

Beyond the money: The perks of coding

Financial rewards are important, but coding offers more than a heavy paycheck. Here are some additional benefits:

• Work flexibility: Many tech companies embrace remote work options, allowing coders to work from almost anywhere.
• Career growth: The tech industry constantly evolves, offering coders ample opportunities to learn new skills and advance their careers.
• Problem-solving prowess: Coding enhances problem-solving abilities, a valuable asset in any field.
• Building cool stuff: Coders are satisfied with creating the technology that shapes our world.

Is coding right for you?

While coding offers a profitable path, it’s not a guaranteed shortcut to riches. Here are some things to consider:

• Aptitude: Coding requires analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for learning new things.
• Effort: Becoming a skilled coder takes dedication and practice. There’s always something new to learn in the ever-evolving world of programming languages and technologies.

How to start a career in coding

Starting a career in coding may seem challenging at first, but with the right approach and resources, anyone can learn to code and build a successful career. Here’s a breakdown of how to start and what steps to take in your journey of understanding how to learn coding.

Steps to begin learning coding

1. Choose your learning path

Self-study

Self-study is a flexible option for those who prefer learning at their own pace. You can start with beginner-friendly books or online tutorials, courses, and bootcamps that teach popular programming languages like Python, JavaScript, or HTML/CSS. Platforms like Educative, Codecademy, and Khan Academy provide interactive lessons that are great for beginners.

Courses and bootcamps

If you prefer structured learning, consider enrolling in university courses or coding bootcamps. Bootcamps offer intensive, fast-track programs designed to teach coding skills in a short period. University courses provide a more in-depth approach and often cover theory alongside practical applications.

Explore different languages and fields

Depending on your interest, explore different coding languages and fields. For example, learning HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is essential if you are interested in web development. For data science, Python and R are popular. Understanding where your passion lies can help guide your learning process.

2. Build a portfolio

Having a portfolio is key to demonstrating your coding skills to potential employers. Start by working on personal projects that showcase your abilities. You can build websites and mobile apps or even contribute to open-source projects. Sites like GitHub allow you to host your code and showcase your projects to a broader audience. The more projects you complete, the stronger your portfolio will be.

3. Gain real-world experience

Practical experience is just as important as learning the theory. Internships provide an excellent opportunity to apply your coding knowledge in a professional environment. Many companies offer internships for beginners, where you can work on real projects, learn from experienced developers, and gain valuable industry insights.

4. Networking and community involvement

Attend meetups and conferences

Participating in coding meetups and tech conferences is a great way to learn, connect with other developers, and stay up-to-date on industry trends. These events often feature talks by experts, hands-on workshops, and networking sessions. Platforms like Meetup.com can help you find local coding groups or tech events in your area.

Join online communities

Coding communities like Stack Overflow, GitHub, and Reddit provide valuable support for both beginners and experienced developers. These forums allow you to ask questions, share your knowledge, and collaborate on coding challenges. Being active in these communities helps you learn faster, stay motivated, and connect with potential mentors.

5. Internships and entry-level positions

Prepare for coding interviews

Coding interviews often include technical assessments and coding challenges. Practice solving problems similar to those asked in coding interviews. Understanding the common interview formats and practicing your problem-solving skills will help boost your confidence and improve your chances of success.

Apply for jobs and internships

Applying for internships or entry-level positions is the next step when you’re ready to start your career. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your coding skills, personal projects, and any relevant experience. Include links to your portfolio and GitHub repository to showcase your work.

By following these steps, building your skills, and gaining real-world experience, you’ll be well on your way to launching a successful coding career.

The verdict: Profitable and rewarding

Coding is a profitable career with a bright future. Coding could be an excellent path if you’re analytical, enjoy problem-solving, and thirst for knowledge. It’s a field that offers financial rewards and the chance to impact the world.

Remember, coding is a skill that improves with practice. Set aside regular study time each day or week, and tackle coding challenges to sharpen your skills. The more you practice, the better you’ll get at solving real-world problems through code.

Whether you’re just starting or considering a career change, coding offers unique opportunities for growth and impact. Dive into the resources listed below to get started on your journey today!