We could indeed say that software engineers are the unsung heroes of the tech industry. Their skills are the reason software devices have become so indispensable for the smooth functioning of our personal as well as professional lives. With a growing number of opportunities being made available for education and training in computer science as well as information technology, there has never been a simpler path to make your mark in the field of software engineering, with or without experience. All you need is a healthy dose of ambition, determination coupled with foresight and flexibility.
Software engineering is a thrilling career path that continues to grow in popularity and has higher-than-average earning potential. Learn more about how you too can become a software engineer this year.
What is Software Engineering?
Initially, many thought software engineering meant "programming". However, programming is just one aspect of the work that software engineers do in their day-to-day work. Software engineers are knowledgeable regarding programming languages, the development process and operating systems for computers. The professionals in this field depend on their understanding of computer science to create software. They are frequently involved in product requirements such as design and testing and documentation, security and maintenance of software.
The various kinds of software that software engineers could create include gaming systems for operating systems robots, web-based applications middleware, business applications and control systems for networks. You'll need extensive knowledge of math, computer science concepts capabilities, as well as interpersonal skills to become an effective software engineer.
Skills Needed to be a Software Engineer
Let’s take a look at the 3 key competencies you need to develop to become a software engineer.
Coding and computer programming knowledge
You cannot claim to be a software engineer if you have no idea of coding and programming. It is crucial to learn different programming languages as well as operating systems and be proficient in one of them.
Testing and debugging software skills
The ability to test and troubleshoot your own code remains one of the most important capabilities you need to have as a software engineer. This is a skill that requires logical thinking because any error could result in major issues.
Communication and collaboration abilities
The job of a software engineer isn't just sitting in a corner creating code but engaging as a member of the company. You need to be able to articulate your ideas to others so that they can make suggestions for improvements. Additionally, you should be able to convey your thoughts through documentation.
Steps to Becoming a Software Engineer
Formal Education or Boot Camps
There are three ways you can get the education you need in this area: get an undergraduate degree, attend a boot camp or learn by yourself. Each comes with pros and cons based on your educational background, your experience and postgraduate plans. The main benefit of having a formal education in computer programming at an accredited college or university is the widely recognized legitimacy and depth of the program. In addition to learning software programs, you will also learn computer architecture, software modeling, electronic design and much more.
You can also get an introduction to software engineering through an online boot camp. The programs are typically 15 weeks in length and are classified as educational programs based on the outcome of getting a job. There are many schools that provide boot camps that are specifically designed for software engineering. Boot camps are geared towards those who have a bachelor's degree in non-technical areas but are looking to change careers and wish to enter the field of technology. If a college degree or the boot camp experience fails to impress you, the third option is to learn by yourself. This self-taught approach is designed for those who are extremely motivated and who want to combine low-cost or free digital resources and create their own curriculum.
Demonstration of programming skills
A proven way to impress and display your capabilities is through an individual project or portfolio. It's the hallmark skill of software engineers to constantly learn due to the ever-changing nature of the industry. Making it a priority to learn by proactively completing the passion for your work will impress hiring managers that you're prepared to improve in the field.
Getting assistance
The majority of colleges have a career center that can assist with the editing of resumes, interview preparation and job applications. Boot camps provide similar services and could be more suited to provide career assistance since they are focused on preparing students for work. If you're taking a leap into the field of computer science, it's an excellent idea to seek whatever career advice is available to you.
Salary Expectations
The outlook for the future is good regarding salary expectations as well as jobs in the field of software engineering. It is reported that the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the median salary for software engineers for 2020 was $110,140. Furthermore, employment is expected to grow by 22 percent in the period between 2020- 2030, which is more than twice the average of 8% for all professions.
Software design is among the most rapidly growing industries worldwide. As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in this field are expected to increase by an impressive 21% until 2028. This is 11 percent faster than the median of all professions. If you need personalized guidance in your quest to become a software engineer, HiCounselor can help you get started on the right track.
HiCounselor has forged technical advances to transform the hiring landscape for job seekers and recruiters alike. Our career accelerator program provides job seekers with coaching and mentorship from industry leaders employed at FAANG companies while recruiters ally with HiCounselor to empower their hiring strategy and hone in on the best candidates. Learn more about HiCounselor here and reach out to us on LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.
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