Becoming a coder at 50?

Can you realistically start a coding career at 50? Short answer: Yes. Some truths: you likely won't be getting jobs at a hot startup, and you will have more of a challenge working for larger companies as a developer/coder ... unless you have good domain knowledge.
Freelance coder would work very well for you though. Details in my video.
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Thanks!
Stef
#coderat50 #codingcourse #codingcareer

[@lawrencekeeney4317]

I am 83 years old, and still writing code.

[@narcisoreyes70]

Thank you for clearing that up! I think there is no age limit.

[@asifikram5749]

@It is a Beautiful World same for me - what tools/courses did you use to start dev?

[@DocBree13]

that’s awesome!!! you’re my hero

[@DeadlyRevenged]

in a company?

[@mesharialmeshari2479]

Much respect to you 🙏🏼

[@jover4653]

I retired at 60 but will rejoin the workforce as web developer freelancer at 62 next month. My previous work were IT security professional. Programming is a hobby, started writing code since I was 30 yrs old. Wrote complex database intensive applications as a hobby. Programming is just a piece of cake. At 62 yrs old, I can easily learn a new programming language and become an expert in it in 3 months or less. My latest skills are PHP, MySQL, CSS, HTML, JavaScript. Getting hired as a web developer at 62 is not easy, so my strategy is setup a web developing business and I am the owner and web programmer.

[@thomaswinterburn6680]

f*** yeah man

[@sglasgowaz]

@UnEqual Reality Not that I care, but how is he acting like he is young? He has his face on the video. You focused on the profile pic? Also, just your statement alone about hiring him to code shit, is laughable as you are probably one of the people that is ruining the industry. Been doing this for 25 years, and most of the crap coming out is an embarrassment to the industry/field. Probably also the type of person I laugh out who interviews people that I have to sit in on. But then I guess you share things all the time just for the sake of sharing things that go towards your biased opinions also.

[@KletoReese]

So glad and thrilled to be reading this because at 45 years old I am in the same process of building and owning my own web dev company. I already have extensive knowledge and experience in web design and development. Now i.m learning the Frontend stack. I wish you the very best!

[@fredharvey2720]

Tell us how it goes.

[@mb-le9en]

You’re too old. You’re supposed to be retired so younger people can get those jobs.

[@merrills1460]

Practical advice. I'm taking your course at 58. I've owned 3 businesses. Law degree. 10 years in that field. You just go for it... do what you want. Freelancing is the way.

[@hjalmarbormann5923]

But not coding.

[@3dstuffin]

I’m going to be 44, starting now for a career change.

[@felipecatalangomez5342]

i start coding at age 43 i am working as java developer. now i am 47

[@thomaswinterburn6680]

awesome man take life by the b***

[@HE360_Games]

That's great! I am 40 and am trying to start out.

[@vladimirkuryanov5242]

You guys gonna be fine. You'll deffinitely all cope..

[@3dstuffin]

Felipe Catalan Gomez that’s Awsome! Any adviceon how to approach my first project? I’m all ears

[@zebratangozebra]

I'm 69 and I still code, waking up in the morning and coding is the best part of my day.

[@DimitriNakos]

Nice.

[@DennyWygant]

I turn 50 soon and I've had this passion for technology since the 1980s. I've been freelancing part time here and there for years while working other jobs. I moved to Ho Chi Minh city two years ago to teach English and now I code and build websites in my free time. I really enjoy watching your videos and you give me a lot of great info. I think my days of hard physical work are behind me now and I want to take it to the next level for the remainder of my life here on Earth.

[@andrewpage2496]

i am a 50 year old coder.. my domain is coding. I now work mostly with startups and green fields projects. Success in coding is all about staying current.

[@CsabaVargaZoltan]

Thank you Stefan, good insights! I am personally affected by this video as many of the other commenters :) I have a Law degree, worked for a while in finance, got a stint as a court law clerk, did some project management in the public sector and I've been working as a high school teacher in the past couple of years. At the moment I'm preparing for a (final) career change by participating in an intensive one-year junior developer bootcamp. I'm 41.

[@CsabaVargaZoltan]

A short update 8 months later: I have landed my first software developer job, so it's definitely possible (well, not exactly in my fifties but not a youngster either).

[@milar9161]

Where did you take the course?

[@kirillb1685]

Great breakdown Stefan as always! Main takeaways: 1. Use your domain knowledge to your advantage 2. Learn Webstack / Wordpress development/ Web professional 3. Freelance - develop good portfolio 4. Communication skills is a must. Thank you!

[@cautarepvp2079]

Domain you mean by previous job? Lol what if you start first time as programmer?

[@DocBree13]

then it’s unlikely you’re interested in finding out what this video has to say about starting coding as an older person - or you were a homemaker and never worked outside of the home, and that’s what you’d use for the basis of your domain of interest/knowledge (or work in a coffee shop for 6 months, like he said)

[@Malaveldt]

This fell into my recommendations out of the blue, and I'm very thankful for it. I'm pushing 50, and looking to get out of the game industry for stability reasons. What you bring up about domain knowledge is really interesting, and something I hadn't really thought about before.

[@Jacen777]

*_I'm 46 and have spent my life in the Military and Law Enforcement. I'm looking to get my Security+ certification and seek a position in IT Security. Really hoping I can make this work. I don't ever want to retire._*

[@paulclark5910]

I'm 55. Been playing with personal projects for a couple of years, and recently joined Upwork to see if anyone would pay me to code. I've been really surprised. I quoted $30 fixed price for my first project 2 months ago, knowing it would take a full day, explicitly to get a project and feedback on my profile. I now have 2 hourly jobs running at $50 and $65 per hour. In the freelance world - even in "cheap" markets like Upwork - maturity and the ability to alk to business owners at their level seems to be a positive differentiator. It is possible to start in your 50s and quite quickly get decent gigs.

[@curtishennig1479]

Wow. I turn 50 in June and have been in insurance sales for 10 years and looking for a change. What a great way to look at moving into a new career and using my knowledge that I have gathered. That is for the great outlook and advice. Makes me feel better about giving this a try. Thank you....

[@darthstructure7370]

I needed this stef!!!!

[@BenVanCamp]

My coworker did it, and he’s a great developer. All about being open minded to learning.

[@joslynnehill6309]

I'm 62 while I'm slow I find the basics easier to follow now that 40 years ago when coding was beyond me. Have been coding for 7 months with a zero knowledge watching you tube video from tutors like Stefan. Having fun 1st website ready to rock and roll in a month or so. Believe that you can do it and you will.

[@keithhunt8]

43 here. I've run my own lawn maintenance business for several years. Looking to target customers like myself.

[@thomaswinterburn6680]

that's solid man, go crush it.

[@Mike-yv1dh]

Finley someone I can relate to I've been installing pool equipment for the last 3.5 years before that I was a mechanic been studding web development for about two years now keep going at it we're going to kick ass in this industry I'm 37 and was afraid to go to meetups but I'll tell you go to them the'll keep your motivation up and get you around people in the industry.

[@JV-dc7om]

Hi Keith, have you managed to include programming/web development in your business? How was the journey and your struggles especially then?

[@timothyfox6797]

Great video! I'm learning the web stack now in order to build my own affiliate site. I've found that I love the coding side, and I will add coding websites as a side gig. Thanks for posting this!

[@luizfvital]

That's an amazing view!

[@exoticwoodpen]

Great video, good advice just for me since I'm in this 50 catagory.

[@dabluerover]

I'm 34 and im excited for this new journey!

[@fredharvey2720]

Just starting cybersecurity studies at age 49 here.

[@em-qk4go]

CyberSecurity is still new and evolving, so you're riding the wave

[@fredharvey2720]

When I was a kid, our first computer was a TRS-80 Color Computer we hooked up to a small black and white TV with a 300 baud modem on the phone line, text only. Early 1980s. Boy have things changed... Lots to learn about computers for me, but it's easier than studying cellular biology.

[@wlidmahou558]

@Fred Harvey do you study in a university or a special school for cybersecurity or as an autodidact on Udemy, youtube, Coursera ... ect. Are you studying / or living in the USA?

[@angelagilmartin2109]

Just turned 49....Just curious...Do you have a plan of study? Are you pursing a degree, cyber security bootcamp, or just certs?

[@rverm1000]

Domain knowledge nice! I didn't think about that

[@darkthrongrising5470]

Going to Meetups and networking is a good way to get in to coding when your older. Johnny Carson once said 'If people like you, youve won 80 percent of the battle.' I think the way coding is impacting the world right now, it will change the face of the work force. Good and inspiring video Mr Mischook, thank you!! Very nice view by the way, Im in northern Indiana and have been teasing the idea of checking out Canada, my wife loves the climate there.

[@hometeam2526]

Great video!

[@MrPDTaylor]

I'm just starting at 39.

[@darthstructure7370]

Dude I am about to graduate at 39 with a BS Computer science. I am scared shitless. Lmao

[@phabeondominguez5971]

@@darthstructure7370 don't be bro, I "RETIRED" at age 40, last summer to be exact, but now I'm BORED, been eyeing this coding ish, seems like Sky's the limit and easy for anyone to get into it, self taught, BUT YOUR FRESH and with a BS so you should be good..

[@FuckUTubeCorp]

Dude, I didn't think u were this old. No offense

[@Bm23CC]

@@phabeondominguez5971 SEEMS ....................................

[@phabeondominguez5971]

@@Bm23CC exactly bro, life is like that tho, sometimes the greatest rewards are won with the grace of the GREATEST risks ya smell me? aka In my case we had a 2 week family trip to Rome, Italy and work wasn't having it.. gave 2 weeks notice and THEN and only then didn't hey offer me $10k increase.. the damage was done, and I want trying to hear that, not even for more $$$... Lesson LEARNED, for my employer.. oNe

[@aappiah1]

Great video thanks

[@4etri]

Another excellent explanation! Even that I am 20 years away from my 50s, this helps a lot with the thinking methods a person should have. Thank you for your effort and professional video :)

[@JP-wb1oo]

I'm 45 and am just finishing my first semester at community college for web dev. I'll finally be using studioweb (that I bought back in Dec) to get a leg up on coding over the summer. Going back to school is tough but I've enjoyed it so far.

[@hjalmarbormann5923]

But what about career choice ? Can you make money on it ?

[@JP-wb1oo]

@@hjalmarbormann5923 Can I make money in IT? Sure. There are employers recruiting at my school almost every week. IT jobs are in such high demand right now. All kinds of jobs from coding & networking to data analysis and database mgmt. The IT world is wide open right now for anybody willing to do a little learning, no matter if self taught or schooled.

[@jplsolutions-ca]

Great tips. Awesome view.

[@Inquire98]

"Good", very good to hear 😎😉😎

[@busyrand]

It's so beautiful where you live. This industry is one of the few that still offers options for the age group that often face harsh discrimination, or are rarely hired due to the level of compensation for years of work experience and things like tenure. The best tip I got on the issue is understanding that the people you work with will likely be younger, therefore they'll feel uncomfortable having to hand-hold someone. Mid-level and up is what is expected if you are an older candidate, and that's plenty, based upon conversations with people in the industry. Great video and tips.

[@GeeBeisH]

I left a senior job in systems administration to take on a career in coding. I was fortunate to be financially set to just do freelancing while I learned to code. After three years of making good money freelancing, I wanted to learn more and start working in more team-oriented projects. I put my CV out there and at age 50, after my second job interview in over twenty years, I got a job at a company as a UI developer...

[@KletoReese]

Terrific video!!

[@taariqq]

52 in May. That tip on domain knowledge is right on. I know a few people who specialize in limousine business. Makes it much easier to pitch and sell. Conversation is very short and almost no demands besides the basic features.

[@Jack-gc6yz]

Stefan, your videos are great and they've been helping me build my next carreer. I'm 54, starting to code and working hard to become a freelancer. Greetings from Brazil!

[@Chuklov1]

How is your success? Are you still coding?

[@ef702]

I am 55 and I have worked in the greater Washignton DC area for almost 20 years. I worked back in the early 2000s at a minority owned government contractor and we had people on our development team from 17 to early 40s. We all got along and worked well together and got the work done. I also worked on a government contract with a testing team that was all indian, development team that was white, asian, and russian with an age range of 30 to 60. Basically I am saying that the team was made of multiple cultures and ages. We all got the work done. This age thing is just plain prejudice. We make up reasons to validate why we don't hire people or groups we don't want. The work environment is so personal. Let people apply based on skills and come in and do the job. You don't have to marry them, or go out after work, or even like them. I have worked temp jobs for a while and bring more energy and professionalism to the job than just about anybody. I think the job market has allowed for cherry picking people and hopefully the development field is not at that point

[@frenchmike]

not enough videos like this imo, lol, since I am now 49, and 3 years ago I had never coded a 'hello world'. now I just got my Associate in CS and on my way towards a Bachelor then hopefully a Masters, then homelessness maybe but I had fun

[@VideoServicesLI]

Thanks for this video Steph, your words of wisdom are reassuring. As a former self-employed contractor for 35 years, I've been trying to switch over to Web Design & development for ... err... 22 years now. 😖 Life got in the way for a while but now at 62, the body is worn out and I'm back at learning. It just seems like...at what point do you have enough knowledge to go the freelance route, which is what I am hoping to do shortly. I like the domain idea a lot - it makes a lot of sense to leverage prior experience.

[@christineilunga723]

Keep trying! Agism is real but you can stir your own boat.

[@MrOlivermarketing]

Thanks dude I'm 34 I'm marketing especiallyst.. I thought I was to old for this but thanks man..

[@spankymebottom]

ty

[@lekevoid]

Hi Stefan ! Big fan of your vlog, and I'm sharing it with all my colleagues and interns, I think they provide a nice "shortcut" of sorts, giving some knowledge or at least food for thought that we might have to experience the hard way otherwise. :-) I have a question... You mention "jerk developers" who are full of themselves, unwilling to listen, etc. I must say I've been lucky enough in my life to not really encounter any so far. Some people I did not necessarily get along with, but they were never insulting or real jerks. But you're far from the only one who mentions them. So my question is : am I really that lucky ? Are those developers really widespread and I'm one of the lucky few who have avoided them, or are they more scarce than they sound and one can realistically spend a lifetime without encountering one ? So far it seems to me like they're a very vocal, very small minority, and their loudness is the only reason why they get that much attention, but I may be wrong. Could you comment on that ? Thank you and keep up the good work !

[@RowlandOConnor]

Creating and selling software based products or services is age agnostic. For example, creating domain specific plugins for popular platforms (e.g magento)

[@BionicCyborg]

Great points! One thing that I will like to point out. Freelancing seems like a good way to go when you are older. The point that I want to stress is if you are in the US (No health insurance because of course we want to be the last first world western without National Health Insurace) the price of insurance can be a factor. I suspect freelancing is potentially more appealing when health care is an option i.e. in Cananda. Of course when faced with no insurance and no income.......then maybe freelancing and getting an income might be useful. In the lower 48 the degree that lack of insurance hits in different ways in different states.

[@em-qk4go]

Exactly, let your vote be revolutionary

[@BassByRon]

IT Business Analyst. Started training at 55. Stephan...could you please do a video on IT Business Analysis?

[@astroimagers]

That B-roll at the end was a perfect metaphor for "wiser" new devs. The panoramic for problem solving and recognizing seasons... as well as sniffing out corporate BS.

[@Bm23CC]

Im 47 and I just graduated. I used to be an electronics engineer so I always in tech. From what I can see the larger companies will give you a chance but filter you out subtly 1. by assigning cognitive testing with very high bar (10 -15 %) of sample group 2. Just ignore your cv 3. Parse by keywords so that your cv will never be seen by a hiring manager. The HR firewall is the worst once you get in and get chatting to them its diffferent.. It's tougher but everything is doable.

[@BLACKTOPGOD]

I'm 32, despite my struggles with learning how to code.. and where i think I should of been by now.. i'm still persistent.. this is definitely motivating.

[@fngonzo]

Thanks Stefan! I am starting Python for myself, but I will eventually move to other languages...the first one is the toughest... hopefully I can start a freelancing business in the next 3 to 5 years! By the way was that Mont Royal in your 'B' roll?

[@zobeelatif1545]

If you’re trying, you’re already much better off than the majority. The cap is only as tall as you make it.

[@cautarepvp2079]

What do you mean by trying? And you are better than the majority??

[@martiat6310]

@@cautarepvp2079 i think he means 'trying' is the key to new opportunities in life - no matter your age

[@martiat6310]

@@cautarepvp2079 i think he means that by 'trying' you escape fatalism, a common attitude (some people believe they are 'too old' to learn new things in life). 'Better' in this case means: you just do it better if you are 'trying' in life (instead of giving up)

[@dean6046]

Stef "The Man" Mischook

[@johndunn6253]

Starting at 47. Thanks for the video.

[@wizinvestmarkerting3908]

I'm thinking about software engineering at 47. Please how are u starting

[@chiquitocastaneda2851]

Hey Stef, great video, it is really great that you are encouraging people to go the extra mile or ten feet whichever... I like those video's and which camera is that you are holding??? Chiquito...

[@StefanMischook]

Insta 360

[@chiquitocastaneda2851]

@@StefanMischook Thank You...

[@riledmouse4677]

What camera is that? Do you use an external mic? Thanks so much for the valuable content!

[@thecodinggrey3424]

started learning web development and Swift at 53 after working in the IT field for 30 years... now I'm looking specifically for remote working

[@signorpops8520]

The Coding Grey which one is better? IT or web developer? Stress , flexibility, pay

[@happychuckprogramming6048]

very powerful..

[@janklatka1967]

Dude I am also rocking A pink t-shirt and it looks like the same material. Stay comfy friend

[@bstdev]

It's interesting to find out why laravel vs cake for instance

[@alkebabish]

I'm 41 and I worked as a web developer 20 years ago so I have some knowledge of PHP, JavaScript and CSS. I recently got back into coding since I was so impressed with all the AI stuff that's happening now. Currently learning Python and React. I find it easier now because there are libraries to do everything. I want to work freelance or start my own website/app that makes money somehow.

[@StefanMischook]

That's awesome!

[@larrylarry1368]

I am fall under this age category. I was once worked as computer hardware installer and Point of Sale support. I am thinking that if I can be both web developer and Point of Sale support would give me a broader clientele. Do you think start learning Java, Python and JavaScript would be a good start for me? I am planning to spend a month for each of the programming languages.

[@mahdiajalil]

@Stefan Mischook hi, i am trying to start my coding life , would u make a video about how to become a coder/software developer without going to universities. i like to work in field of AI and web. thanks

[@glowind5925]

I started when I was 20 as a freelance web developer, my first job in a company was when I was 27 (PHP), now I'm 36 and still coding (JavaScript, Node.js, React/React Native) and starting to learn Unity/C#. I usually receive almost 100 job offers on Linkedin per month so I could give up my current job and get another in one week if I want. I don't really know how this would change in a couple of years but anyway I don't have plans to work for a company in the future, I would like to create my own business... but what I'm trying to say is that I'm almost 40 and there are a lot of job opportunities for me. Just you have to keep up to date with the technology, keep learning new things to be competitive in the market. Be an expert in your field.

[@Chuklov1]

Hi, am almost 40 too, never been in IT domain, is it possible for me to become a coder, or i just may lose time trying to learn coding?

[@glowind5925]

​@@Chuklov1 Why not? today it's not like years ago, there is plenty of good information and good tutorials on the internet, you could buy a course in udemy, pluralsight, lynda, egghead to name a few... my recommendation is to try to be really good at one thing, for example, front-end development, or iOS swift development or whatever, look for things that are in demand, you can learn programming with C++ or Ruby but, how many jobs are there compared to JavaScript.

[@Chuklov1]

Thanks a lot for your thorough comment, you motivate me, i'll take it into account and make a try to studying. Wish you Happy New Year! 🎄🎉🍾🍰

[@glowind5925]

@@Chuklov1 I'm glad I motivated you, happy new year! :)

[@wlidmahou558]

@@glowind5925 Can we be recruited by only mentioning on our CV that we took courses on Udemy, Lynda, Coursera ....?

[@accentontheoff]

Hi Stefan / others, am a creative guy, advertising professional, 50, a writer, and want to learn and have a go at programming, as a freelancer. An absolute beginner in this field, but eager to start something. Would you be able to give me some specific advice as to how to begin. I mean tangible stuff. Can I start learning, say, PHP off the bat or do I need some preliminary studies. From what I gather you would recommend PHP, along with Wordpress, as a way to enter this field? Thanks!

[@developmentlearner3487]

The answer is YES YOU CAN. Plenty of established companies look for Junior Level Programmers to maintain existing software that's been used for MANY years. I'm not talking here today gone tomorrow startups, im talking established small and middle and large companies. Learn your code, then in the interview just let them know you are wise, dependable and have a lot of experience and are very motivated and will work hard. You will actually have an advantage over your average joe youngsters coming out of college. Yes some places may not hire you purely based on age, but some will hire you. Before I worked as developer, I worked for a software company doing support and deployment we hired someone who was 50+.........the company wanted someone with a mature attitude.

[@PoorGamerNo1]

Development Learner what a bunch of bs lol

[@developmentlearner3487]

@@PoorGamerNo1 How is it BS, I work as a software developer, started at age 30 LOL. Moron.

[@hjalmarbormann5923]

Development Learner But not @50. It HAS DIFFERENCE.

[@developmentlearner3487]

@@hjalmarbormann5923 Says who? You? Bro, you are not every employer in the country, I've seen 50+ year olds work for my former company on SQL databases and you are telling me its impossible for a 50 year old programmer starting out to be employed, you are talking rubbish. Yes its tough, but it can happen.

[@derekthompson5731]

Thanks for all your videos. I'm assuming that's Canada someplace? 7:10 seems a sizeable city - where is it?

[@StefanMischook]

Montreal.

[@derekthompson5731]

@@StefanMischook Ahh... nice. Hello from Virginia. And thanks again for your videos. Subscribed maybe a month or two ago - I find the content really helpful.

[@fractalofgod6324]

48 and looking to learn and get into Web development so I can travel and work freelance, how do I go about getting established in webdev

[@Stevethesearcher]

Great video Stefan. A lot of people want to change careers even if they 40+ . Of course the reality is that employers are youth orientated and see anyone over the age of 30-35 as over the hill. It’s definitely a lot harder if you older no matter how competent you are. Ageism is the uncool discrimination!

[@lexsoft3969]

Except for very exceptional old programmer. Google is still using some veterans : Ken Thompson (76) and Rob Pike (62). Go aka Golang was created by them in 2007 at Google.

[@juno7893]

Looking at the weather. Are you in Canada?

[@christineilunga723]

I am 63 and have more energy and able to absorbe more and quicker than the current younger ...

[@johnc3403]

If you are new to all this, I would advise that your journey start with an install of Linux. Learn the Command Line, learn Vim and stick with it, learn tmux, after a while switch to Openbox or one of the more challenging desktops and become familiar with .config files. Learn how to build packages from source code, how to load a new Kernel, how to update and upgrade your system. Watch networking basics videos, learn about ports and port scanning, play with nmap and wireshark. That's the least you should do before throwing yourself into a language. Personally, I would take a good 3 years to get this stuff down, to build confidence in your abilities and gain a solid grounding before you embark on your next chapter. You won't be sorry. ..and no, don't turn your back on Windows or Mac completely. That's not the object here. But embrace Linux with open arms, it will serve you well.

[@simongreenidge6454]

Companies that want to be seen as exciting and trendy like to hire the brightest programmers in their 20s (perhaps because their salaries can be lower too) but they don't stick around for very long; they tend to move on (head hunted) after just a couple of years. This must put more pressure on the project managers and tech leads (and HR) to deliver.

[@ennuied]

Career change gave me a huge dopamine rush and I'm 33, you 40s guys must be swimming in it, if you will not succeed at least you got that going for you. Don't think of destination, enjoy the journey.

[@JonesDi77]

Most people have to work well into their 70’s and 80’s, so, why not get into a field that is consistently growing and most coders actually don’t stay in a job for more than 5 years (unless you just want a job and don’t care to grow and learn new things). Also, this is one of the few fields where you can work remotely.

[@msg360]

i'm 34, learned the basics of front end when i was 23-24... 10 years later now that i'm older, its actually easier now than when I was 24.. I feel like the focus and determination is better

[@leonf.7893]

43yo here. Graduated from a tech college at 41 and landed a job in a Magento dev shop about 6 months ago. However, I've really struggled with the platform and am calling it quits for that job. I'll try intensive home study to fill some of the gaps in my knowledge, and hopefully get an easier dev job somewhere else. I hope it was just Magento and nothing to do with my abilities.

[@silversolver7809]

Magento is known to be quite difficult. Good luck with your next shot-consider web stack if you're still newish to the game, like Stef recommends.

[@AlgaeNymph]

I'm 40 and getting back into coding after over two decades. I don't see myself working for anybody, at least nobody formal, so I'm getting back to working on being a indie game dev. Any life suggestions?

[@FoodImitatingArt]

Hey im 41 and since i turned 40 last sep i have been training in Java to be an indie mobile game developer. Over the past 6 months ive learnt enough code to write the logic of my first two games independently. However, game development is an art form so you need to be creative and use software packages like Adobe XD and protopie to design your games interface and build a library of games assets using sites like dribble etc. All the best in your adventure. Programming is hard but you have to stick with it to reap the rewards😊

[@millertime6]

I started coding in my late 30’s but have spent a decade in real estate and finance so it’s not all that different from using excel at an advanced level. Just way more flexible.

[@millertime6]

Cihangir Bozdogan 😂 I knew I’d get a response out of that statement, but I did qualify by saying “advanced excel.” If you’ve ever built any sophisticated models in excel, you would know what I mean.

[@millertime6]

Cihangir Bozdogan I’m a numbers freak 😂 I love math and finance

[@millertime6]

Cihangir Bozdogan I haven’t but I’ll try. I’m fairly new to programming but I’ve been doing mostly JavaScript and have used R. Python is also on my radar as of now.

[@mladizivko]

@@millertime6 I don't know much about Haskel. However, I do not recommend Pascal. I think it's mostly out of date and useless. C++ and (the quickly growing) Python may be more to your interest. C++ is quite quick and good for understanding fundementals. I'd say it's not necessary, however. Python has a lot of prebuilt stuff for various fields (usually implemented in C++ or similar languages), which makes it versatile. This guy has a lot of good videos on Python if you're unsure about it and/or want more concrete information than what I was able to provide. What are your experiences with R and JS? I have considered learning them.

[@millertime6]

Живојин Младеновић I took some classes in data science that used R and now I’m focusing more on the web and am spending most my time on JS. I want to do it for a few months more before I jump into python which seems like an awesome stack. I’ve been considering stef’s classes and will check them out now

[@ciprianghenghea7779]

My mom is 56 and wants to start programing lel.Do you think php would be a good choice taking into consideration that you can get easier a job with it and even can be a freelancer

[@darthstructure7370]

Good luck to ur mother and ur family!!!!

[@ciprianghenghea7779]

@@darthstructure7370 Thank you mate !!!!

[@silversolver7809]

Stef tells you in the video-web stack is best for most opps.

[@EricLaermans]

I see only one disadvantage... Employers will not hire you, since you are a "starter" at 50 (a career-switcher). Personally I fully disagree. Do what you like and probably you are more disciplined than much younger nerdlings.

[@hjalmarbormann5923]

I think the way is to find a niche, then it’s possible. Going “very wide” will be extremally hard. “Freelancing” will be a bonus.

[@washingtonradio]

The key is what is your domain knowledge. Some specialized knowledge domains it is hard to find developers who know the field. The transition can be made. Also, if are going work with a company, you need to use your domain knowledge to make you more valuable and hopefully get a hire salary.

[@willyjimmy8881]

Really a lot of companies dont think that at all. Some yes, not all. 20 and 30 year olds are like butterflies, they dont stick around very long. If we need Angular specialists thats what we focus on, finding an Angular specialist. We dont even ask about age.

[@Bm23CC]

I'm 47 but I'm hardly a starter. I've worked in tech since I was 20 but not as a dev. My previous life was as an electronic engineer. From that, I had a good knowledge of coding and TCP protocol etc.

[@alp.9672]

Ageism is real. It’s hard enough for fresh grads and younger people who are qualified already. Lot of delusional stuff on KZbin about job market.

[@madnomad6528]

Could you make video about" How to became a remote data scientist at 40", and another one "How to became a remote python programmer at 40". I am far from Tashkent city. Your videos very motivated. I am a plc programmer . And I would find a remote job. Thx . Make more. Go ahead.

[@hleet]

What a view !

[@azrivera1]

First of all it does not matter what age you are 50,60, even 80 to learn to code and also make a career change as a developer, yes it will be tough if you are in say, in your 60’s to get an entry level position for a company simply because a lot of folks perceive when you are in that bracket, you are “too old” and considered retired or close to retiring, but in my opinion,that is changing. I am 48 years old and about a month ago I got offered my first full-stack developer position working for a small business, the interview was laid back and there was no real coding questions involved, long story short I did not accept the offer. So to drive the point, I think what helped me getting the job was that I had a background in Information Technology doing Helpdesk support and they were needing someone with some IT skills to help out. So again, having that “niche” does come in handy to a certain point when entering a role as a software developer. The rest is how dedicated and committed you are to picking up and learning the craft. Proving your skills to someone that you are the right person for the job is the key to landing your first role in this field and your age will not be a factor, only if you make it. Now I am not saying that you have to have an IT background to get a job in coding, it can be any field and remember that saying “Hard work beats talent anytime!”

[@silversolver7809]

'remember that saying “Hard work beats talent anytime!”' Remember also that smart work beats hard work not just any time, but all the time.

[@em-qk4go]

@PhyZeik When's the last time you walked a geriatric facility? Nothing but wifi, mobile devices, and Netflix streaming goin' on.

[@PaulPhillipsUK]

If you go freelance it will be hard to develop skills I think without working with others. Look to join online communities perhaps If will also be hard to sell yourself as a freelancer if you don't have a portfolio of work.

[@isaidstream4547]

That's hot

[@rverm1000]

2yrs later I'm still learning python. Just recently signed up for a coding coarse to learn more than python.

[@timothythomas1626]

domain aka niche

[@miketurner3461]

So I'm not 50, but I am 40 and I just have this recommendation. THE WEB STACK SHOULDN'T NECESSARILY BE YOUR DEFAULT OPTION. The web developer market is saturated. If you have talent for math, or for electronics, chemistry or something like that you should consider things like: scientific programming or machine learning in python/R/Julia, cryptographic programming, etc. Companies pay really good money for specialized experience because the talent pool in specialized disciplines (especially with domain knowledge) is rare and they're willing to hire someone rougher around the edges in coding for the specialized knowledge tradeoff.

[@MauriceLacerda0]

Hey Stef. I read about the heavy rain and 5k dislodged in Montreal and Ottawa. Hope all is well. Send word when you can.

[@StefanMischook]

I'm cool. Thanks for asking. I am nowhere near the problem areas.

[@MauriceLacerda0]

@@StefanMischook That's good to know! Stay safe.

[@DeadlyRevenged]

Is it normal to find programmers aged 55 and over working? could i get a job at 55?

[@philmarsh3859]

Domain knowledge. I totally agree. Once I joke with my boss that while my principle job involves writing code, I'm not a real software engineer, just impersonating one. To which my boss replied. Yes, but you also know RF design, device physics, and RF test and very few "real" software engineers know those too.

[@roystonvanwyk5086]

I'm just starting @ 43

[@simbobcrafts4843]

I’m 36 and already feel it’s too late. Freelancing online is my only option as I am currently teaching English in Thailand. Not sure how to start getting freelance jobs. I am enjoying learning python at the moment

[@thomaswinterburn6680]

people will hire you to build a site for them, end.

[@milekrizman]

I am not a starter, but I have hurt spine, so I can't sit for a long time.

[@simbobcrafts4843]

Dev Guy Is there a big market for that?

[@Chuklov1]

Hi, are you still teach english? Is it well-paid job in thai?

[@rafalzasada8826]

I am not sure that the downside of being in fifties is that companies will be reluctant because of "nearing" retirement. That person would still work for another 10 years for that company. So when companies hire somebody in their twenties do they really believe that person will stay with them for 15 or 20 years? Some people jump jobs every 3 years. Maybe you meant something else between the lines but you did not want to say it explicitly?

[@christianlanoire7541]

That’s me

[@mallillindantejr4920]

it's never too late to me become a software engineer or programmer soon after college graduation at my age of 28 or 30 years old above😊😊

[@yikes5818]

I'm gonna be 17 soon I thought I was too late

[@-The_M.]

I just sent this video to my dad. He's in his 50s and has been watching me learn and grow in web development. He just text me and asked how he can start! I recommend W3C Schools and Codecademy to get started. Does anyone else have other recommendations where my dad could learn?

[@DemetriusDasilva]

teamtreehouse

[@alexanderscurtis]

Check out www.freecodecamp.org/

[@markshrigley4064]

What is the avg career salary for a jr coder? Just curious...

[@signorpops8520]

Mark Shrigley 32000

[@daviddenson3324]

When you say "Web Stack" do you mean Full Stack?

[@em-qk4go]

Yes, from the Frontend to the Back(end).

[@fahadmurad7865]

Rise your hand if you are starting in 28.

[@wattheshet]

hahaha same!

[@fahadmurad7865]

@@wattheshet have you start learning this year .

[@xPain91]

27 starting Java. Switching from sales...

[@fahadmurad7865]

@@xPain91 i am learning php and i am 27

[@xPain91]

@@fahadmurad7865 don't give up no matter what