Is Becoming A Software Engineer Worth It In 2023

The Challenges of Starting a Programming Journey in the Present Day

Photo by Emily Ranquist on Pexels

Intro

As a resident of Ukraine, my perspective on the worth of becoming a software engineer is influenced by the circumstances of my country. It’s important to acknowledge that the situation may vary in the United States and other nations.

Historically, programming has been regarded as the primary profession that offers a pathway to a comfortable lifestyle in Ukraine. However, recent developments have brought a lot of significant changes.

I hope this revision aligns with your intentions.

Before we delve into the topic, I want to emphasize that my intention is not to discourage you. As a Software Engineer, I understand the allure and passion for this profession. In fact, despite any potential negative aspects discussed here, I personally remain committed to my career choice.

Here are points that you should take into consideration when planning to start an IT journey:

1. AI

Yes, I know. AI. Again…

Honestly, I don’t think AI will destroy the entire programming world and make the profession disappear. But here’s the thing: AI might crush junior programmers.

Who really wants to hire a newbie these days? Every company is looking for experienced devs who can hit the ground running and pay them big bucks. No one has the time or patience to hold the hand of a fresh graduate who needs a ton of help.

Let’s face it: the gap between senior and junior developers is only going to widen with the advent of AI. As AI technology advances, it provides unlimited assistance to experienced developers, skyrocketing their productivity and leaving fewer tasks for juniors to handle.

2. Crisis

The world around us is going through turbulent times, marked by wars, recessions, and the crumbling of financial institutions. Unsurprisingly, these global challenges have left a profound impact on the IT industry. In the Ukrainian job market, we have witnessed a staggering 70% decrease in the number of available positions, leading to widespread layoffs and uncertainty.

However, it’s essential to note that the crisis isn’t solely confined to IT. The field of engineering stands out as one of the most stable professions. The reason is simple: in times of upheaval, experienced engineers have a higher likelihood of securing employment due to their invaluable expertise and sought-after skills.

3. High competition

One significant reason why I believe it may not be the best moment to enter the IT industry is the level of competition.

As more and more individuals graduate from computer science programs and realize the lucrative potential in this field, even professionals from other industries are transitioning to IT. However, with widespread layoffs and the rise of AI, the number of available positions is diminishing while the pool of job seekers continues to grow. This scenario creates an extremely challenging situation, making it nearly impossible to secure a job without prior production experience.

Additionally, it can lead to a decline in paychecks as the supply of qualified candidates outweighs the demand.

4. Accessibility

It’s worth acknowledging that one notable aspect of the IT field today is its widespread accessibility. Anyone can venture into the realm of coding, thanks to the abundance of excellent books, courses, and online resources available for learning. This accessibility is a double-edged sword, presenting both positive and negative implications.

On the positive side, the ease of access democratizes the opportunity to become a proficient coder, opening doors for individuals from diverse backgrounds. It empowers aspiring programmers to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to enter the industry and pursue their passion.

However, the flip side of this accessibility is that the sheer number of aspiring coders entering the field exacerbates the competition we discussed earlier.

A striking shift in the perception of coders has occurred over the past two to three decades. In the past, programming and systems development was primarily pursued by brilliant minds, often considered scientists in their field. However, the landscape has transformed dramatically. Nowadays, referring to coders as scientists is no longer right. They are viewed more as workers, similar to professionals in construction or other trades.

Should you get into IT?

After considering the various factors we’ve discussed, I’ve developed a portrait of a person who has the potential to successfully embark on a career in the IT field. This profile outlines key qualities and skills that can increase the likelihood of securing a job and becoming someone in the industry:

• Resilience and Motivation: You understand the challenges that lie ahead and are prepared to face them head-on. Your determination and clear understanding of why you want to pursue a career in IT will provide the necessary drive to overcome obstacles along the way.
• Passion for Learning: You have a genuine love for learning.
• Mathematical Aptitude: A solid foundation in math is essential in many areas of IT. If you possess a strong grasp of mathematical concepts and enjoy working with numbers, it will enhance your problem-solving abilities and analytical thinking skills, which are highly valued in the field.
• Effective Communication and Negotiation Skills: IT professionals are not limited to technical tasks alone; they often collaborate with teams, interact with clients, and engage in negotiations. Having excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, along with the ability to negotiate effectively will set you apart and facilitate successful collaborations with colleagues and clients.

If you still decide to become a Software Engineer you may find this article helpful:

Skills Required to Become a Python Engineer in 2023

Conclusion

To be honest, I think now is the worst time to start learning programming. Factors such as intense competition, the impact of AI, economic crises, and a scarcity of job opportunities can create a daunting environment. However, I believe that if you possess a genuine passion for programming and are willing to put in the necessary effort, nothing should stop you from doing it.

Wishing you the best of luck on your journey, regardless of the challenges that may arise.

If you’re looking for professional advice or consultancy services, please feel free to contact me via LinkedIn.

I am always available to help and support individuals who need guidance on various topics related to my area of expertise. Whether you need assistance with your IT career or you are a company that wants to build a new project I am happy to help you!