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The demand for IT workers and programmers continues to soar despite recent fluctuations in the tech industry. Even amid waves of tech layoffs, the rise of AI, and the effects of the Great Resignation, many experts argue that these changes are part of the industry’s evolution, not its decline. According to a Forbes article, the focus on creating digital-first organizations means that tech roles—such as software developers, analysts, and programmers—are more crucial than ever. This trend underscores the fact that technology is integral to business operations in every sector.
In fact, software developers were ranked the best job in America on U.S. News and World Report’s “100 Best Jobs” list, with a median salary of $120,730. These positions are not only in high demand, but they also offer promising career prospects, as technology continues to expand across new use cases and industries. For budding programmers, the road to success starts with ongoing education and skills development. Whether through formal degrees or self-taught methods, aspiring developers have access to numerous resources to support their growth in this thriving industry.
In this article, we will explore four key digital resources tailored to new programmers who are eager to kickstart their careers.
University resources
Although many successful programmers never completed a formal degree, many prominent tech leaders—such as Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg, and OpenAI’s Sam Altman—began their journeys studying computer science in college. The growing demand for tech workers is reflected in the educational system, with computer science programs becoming more common across universities. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, degrees in computer and information sciences made up 5% of the 2 million degrees conferred in 2021. This shows the increasing importance of IT-related disciplines in higher education.
For those on a university track, it’s wise to maximize the available resources. Many universities, like Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), offer online portals that connect students to digital libraries, career services, and academic support. For instance, SNHU’s online system allows students to access a wealth of ebooks, journals, and research materials relevant to their field. The career services hub provides tools for resume building, job searching, and networking. Students can explore internship opportunities, connect with potential employers, and get guidance on navigating the job market—key steps for breaking into the competitive tech industry.
Computer ebooks
Aspiring programmers who aren’t affiliated with a university can turn to digital libraries to develop their knowledge in computer science. One excellent starting point is Everand, a digital platform that hosts thousands of ebooks and audiobooks for a low monthly fee. For beginner programmers, digital libraries offer advantages such as affordability and portability, allowing access to a wide range of resources on various devices. The computer ebooks on Everand include several top-rated titles, such as Rob Anthony O’Rourke’s The $1,000,000 Web Designer Guide and Jarek Thalor’s Modern C++23 QuickStart Pro.
Thalor’s ebook is particularly beneficial for novice programmers, especially given the rising demand for C++ expertise. In fact, Entrepreneur magazine found that knowledge of C++ is among the most sought-after skills in the tech job market. Modern C++23 QuickStart Pro takes a hands-on approach, providing real-world examples that guide readers through complex programming challenges. For new programmers looking to gain in-demand skills, ebooks like these are invaluable for building a solid foundation in one of the most popular programming languages.
Online courses
Certifications have become an essential currency for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. According to Jeff Lyons, founder of the National Association of Programmers, certifications in programming languages and technologies can help developers improve their skills and boost their earning potential. While traditional degrees are still valuable, certifications are quicker and more flexible, allowing professionals to focus on specific areas of interest.
One of the best ways to earn certifications or take structured online courses is through tech giants like Google. Self-taught engineer Sahil Gaba discovered a wealth of free and low-cost programming courses on the company’s platform, such as a 32-hour crash course on Python, as well as introductory courses on Linux, SQL, and Git. These courses, available through Google’s tech-development site, are designed to help beginners establish a strong foundation in core programming languages and tools. For those who want to learn at their own pace, auditing these courses is an excellent option. Although audited courses don’t provide certification, they offer all the learning materials needed to master the content.
In Gaba’s case, he audited several Google programming courses and landed his first tech job at a fintech startup just a few months later. His success story illustrates how online courses can lead to real-world opportunities, especially for those willing to invest time and effort into self-directed learning.
Career advice on YouTube
Once you’ve honed your programming skills, the next step is applying your knowledge in real-world scenarios. Preparing for tech interviews can be challenging, with numerous topics and concepts to cover. Fortunately, YouTube has emerged as an invaluable resource for job seekers looking to sharpen their skills and boost their confidence before interviews.
One highly recommended channel is freeCodeCamp.org, which boasts a range of tutorials, coding challenges, and career advice. With over 8 million subscribers, freeCodeCamp.org provides video lessons on data structures, algorithms, web development, and software engineering—key topics for both beginners and seasoned programmers. The channel also includes mock interview sessions and tips for navigating the tech hiring process, making it a one-stop resource for those preparing for a job search in the programming field.
Other useful YouTube channels for budding programmers include CS50 by Harvard University and Tech With Tim, both of which provide in-depth coding tutorials and project-based learning to help viewers apply their skills in real-world scenarios. These channels also has valuable insights into the tech industry, helping new programmers understand what employers look for during the hiring process.
As the tech industry continues to evolve, the demand for programmers and IT professionals remains strong. Despite industry fluctuations, the need for skilled developers who can build digital solutions is expected to increase. By leveraging these digital resources, budding programmers can gain a competitive edge and secure their place in the expanding technology field.
