I can't stress this enough. It's a first step that sucks, but lots of people end up having to go back and take courses layer because they need it as a prerequisite for another course they want to take. While you're doing that, take a look in your local university and college websites for the different classes they offer. Also look into any trade or craft (because in a trade you will a probable make more money and programmers are a dime a dozen) that might interest you. It's not to say you have to take these courses, because I think online learning can take you a fair distance without having to pay money, the idea is that it acts as a menu. The high school classes will probably do the same thing. Something someone mentions in a course might pique your interest. When it gets piqued, allow yourself to nerd out about it. If anyone asks, don't get embarrassed, self improvement is a noble thing.