Often referred to as the creative brains behind computer programs, software developers have the technical skills needed to build programs or oversee the creation by their team. The software they create allows users to perform specific tasks on various devices. This can be anything from playing a game, building a spreadsheet, watching a movie, or creating a new program. A career as a software developer is a fast-growing field that’s becoming more and more important for many companies. According to the government of Canada, “for software engineers and designers, over the period 2019-2028, new job openings (arising from expansion demand and replacement demand) are expected to total 27,500.” It adds, “with regard to labour supply, the number of computer science school leavers is projected to continue to be high since this field of study remains attractive to young people.”
Software developers typically combine some education with work experience to break into the field. Here’s a guideline of how to become a software developer:
1. Complete your bachelor’s degree
Many software developers have a degree in computer science paired with a strong understanding of programming skills.
2. Take a bootcamp
Lighthouse Labs’ Web Development Bootcamp and Web Development Flex program will provide you with mentorship, data-driven curriculum, and a top notch learning environment that will launch you into your first Junior Web Developer role.
3. Internships
It’s highly recommended to partake in internships to earn hands-on training, an exposure to programming languages, emerging trends, and best practices within the tech industry.
4. Never stop learning
Any career in technology will mean that you’ll have to keep up with continually new software and languages. Since being a software developer is more on the creative side, you’ll also want to do work to keep your creativity fresh.
Skills Required:
- Statistics and probability
- Computer science
- Data structures
- Computer architecture
- Analytical skills
- Communication skills
Salary Range: $58,000-$120,000 depending on experience.