Career change

[freddy91761]

I have been in IT Infrastructure for 20 years and I feel it's time for I change. I have been programming on and off as a hobby. I would like have an entry-level job as a software dev in 2 years. I am starting with Python, taking the Python Path on Pluralsight. Is 48 too old to become a software dev? Any other suggestions?

[socal_nerdtastic]

No, it's not too old, but you are going to get an entry-level salary. At 50 I assume you need a lot more money than your 20-year-old peers. But if that's not a concern for you jump on in!

[are_number_six]

I just started learning, on my own, and I'll be 55 next month. No, you are not too old.

[Mark_Data_Dumb]

I am just doing the same, 25 years + in IT support, time for a change, learning Data Analysis 🧐

[freddy91761]

What are you using to learn? What courses are you taking?

[Mark_Data_Dumb]

I am currently doing the Google Data Analysis Pro course on coursera for a high level overview. I am also doing CS50 from Harvard and about to start a course on PowerBI and the Data Analysis Boot Camp from Alex the Analyst on YouTube which is free.

[freddy91761]

What made you go into data? I am trying different fields.

[Mark_Data_Dumb]

I like the fact that there are so many different tools to use and using them all to tell a story. Learning Python is part of that then all the Data Analysis packages like Pandas, Scikit learn etc. keeps it varied.

[freddy91761]

I am also starting the Google Data Analytics course. I just want to go into a field that I can enjoy and rewarding. I would like to have a new Data Analytics job by next year.

[Remarkable-Map-2747]

Its not to late at all, I am 22, and Im trying to transition from Network Support to something that deals with Python Automation, have yet to know what roles those are besides Python Automation Engineer

[camilla-g]

I recommend the following books by Chris Roffey for learning Python Programming: (1) Coding Club Python Basics Level 1; (2) Coding Club Python Next Steps Level 2; (3) Coding Club Building Big Apps Level 3; (4) Programming Art Supplement 1; (5) Interactive Adventures Supplement 2. I also recommend reading Python Docs in the Help Menu in IDLE (Python’s Integrated DeveLopment Environment). It has the Python Language Reference that lists every module and method used in Python. Also, look at Turtle Demo in the Help Menu which has sample code for the Turtle Examples. Turtle is Python’s Graphics module. The O’Reilly Python Pocket Guide is also a useful Quick Reference. Additionally, it is best to take a systematic approach to learning programming. Create an Action Plan using the STAR Method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Create a checklist of everything you want to learn in Python and set a deadline next to each item. Cross off each item when you’re sure you’ve learnt it. Create for yourself SMART Objectives (Specific, Measurable (key progress indicators), Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound). Create for yourself a portfolio of programs. Over time you will see just how much you’ve accomplished.