So You Want to be a Computer Programmer

Computer programmers write the code that tells computers what to do. System code tells a computer how to interact with its hardware; applications code tells a computer how to accomplish a specific task, such as word processing or spreadsheet calculating. Stems programmers must be familiar with hardware specifications, design, memory management, and structure; while applications programmers must know standard user interface protocols, data structure, program architecture, and response speed. Most programmers specialize in one of these two areas.

At the start of projects, applications programmers meet with the designers, artists, and financiers to determine the expected scope and capabilities of the intended final product. Next, they map out a strategy for the program, finding the most potentially difficult features and working out ways to avoid troublesome patches. Programmers present different methods to the producer of the project, who then chooses one direction. Then the programmer writes the code. The final stages of the project are marked by intense, isolated coding, extensive error checking, and testing for quality control.

The programmer is expected to address all issues that arise during this testing. Systems programmers may be hired on a Monday, handed the technical specifications to a piece of hardware, then told to write an interface or a patch, or some small, discrete project that takes only a few hours. Then on Tuesday, they might be moved to a different project, working on code inherited from previous projects. Systems programmers must prove themselves as technically fluent. Both arenas accommodate a wide range of work styles, but communication skills, technical expertise, and the ability to work with others are important in general.

Programmers work together respectfully but there are no significant professional organizations that transform this group of people into a community. The best features of this profession are the creative outlet it provides for curious and technical minds, the pay, which can skyrocket if a product you coded is a major success, and the continuing education.

Academic qualifications are important for entry level positions in the field of programming. Course work should include basic and advanced programming, some technical computer science courses, and some logic or systems architecture classes. The complexity of what first time programmers are asked to code is growing, as is the variety of applications used. Long hours and a variety of programming languages can make the initial programmer’s life a whirlwind of numbers, terms, and variables.

Programmers who are not comfortable working in many modes at once may find it difficult to complete tasks. The programmer must remain detail oriented amidst this maelstrom of acronyms. For mobility within the field, programmers should concentrate on developing a portfolio of working programs that show competence, style, and ability.