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A Programmer's View

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The following sections contains an on-the-job interview that may be helpful in providing you with an understanding of what "a day in the life" of a programmer might be like. Interviews with those already on the job is often the best way to get the real scoop.

Interview:

Joe Sapiano, a C++ programmer based in Seattle, provides some insights into the life of a programmer.



Why do you choose to program with C++?

[Joe]: I use C++ for many reasons: its object-oriented capabilities, the ability to reuse code, and code encapsulation. Basically, I use it for its flexibility and reusability features.

What are your qualifications, training, and years of experience?

[Joe]: I have not been using C++ for all that long. Most of my experience is with C.The languages are quite similar. C++ has an object-oriented component that takes some time to learn.

As for formal training, I hold a masters degree in geophysics.This isn't to suggest you need a master's degree to get a job as a C++ programmer. The master's degree required several skills that are transferable to a career in programming. During the degree program, I was involved in some coding using both C and Pascal. Furthermore, my degree required strong mathematical skills. I chose programming work because, essentially, it was available and as it turns out, I find it quite enjoyable to do.

What is required in maintaining and upgrading your skills? Do you pay for your upgrading or does your employer?

[Joe]:Those working directly in software development know that keeping up-to-date and constant upgrading go with the job, and it is a very important part of the job. On my own, I spend time reading to keep current.There is also a strong focus on training where I currently work. My employer currently pays for upgrading, and courses and workshops are readily available.

Basically, the goal of the company is to stay ahead of the competition. To do this, if there is a better, faster, or more secure way of doing things, we need to know. Even programmers that have fifteen years experience still have things to learn. There is always a better way of doing things.

What are your likes and dislikes with the profession or with the language? What are the job stressors?

[Joe]:To be honest, I have to admit it is a lucrative profession and that is definitely nice. Also, it is an exciting field to be working in. We are always on the cutting edge. If there are new products, new methods, or new designs, we are going to be among the first to know.There is always something new to learn.

I do not always like the hours that are required to stay ahead. The problem with working on the cutting edge is that you have to spend the time to stay there. The constant need to retrain can be draining.

Don't expect to get a job programming and work from 9 to 5. Sometimes when it is necessary to meet a deadline, you may work 60 hours per week or more until the project is complete or until you just get too tired. There are considerable time pressures when trying to get a product out; everybody's working hard, and people can sometimes get a little stressed.That is when the job becomes less enjoyable.

Another aspect of the job that I don't like is sitting for long periods of time. The job can be pretty inactive; you definitely need to stay away from the snack foods.

What are your current job responsibilities and daily tasks?

[Joe]: Previously, I was working on some end user applications. Now there seems to be more demand to program in the Web development area. That's mainly how I spend my time now.

There are essentially two main parts of my job: The first is on design and the second is on writing the actual code. Programming is not as isolated as you may think. When it comes to the design of the project we are working on, there is a lot of teamwork. Numerous discussions and meetings are needed to make sure we are all on the same page. However, when it comes to writing the code for our designs, we are pretty much alone at our computers. The coding can take a long time depending on the complexity of the project we are working on.

What kind of environment do you typically work in?

(Joe]: I have always had an office with a door that closes, although the offices are typically shared with another person. Within the office, there is a lot of collaboration on projects. It would be impossible to come to work, sit at the computer, and work independently. Although some independent work is required, there is a strong teamwork requirement to the job.

The only thing I miss in my office is a window, but that is something to work towards.

What are your job prospects?

[Joe]: There are a lot of assumptions that because the IT industry is short of skilled programmers that it is easy for anyone to enter the profession. Although this may be true in some instances, it is not necessarily the case. I have found that people with two years or less experience may have trouble getting a job as a programmer. The reason for this is that the products we are working on need to be turned out quickly, faster than the competition.To get the products out fast enough, employers need programmers who can step in and do the job. It is difficult to train new people and meet project deadlines with the tight timelines we have.

It is possible for those with two years or less experience to get into programming, but they usually have to demonstrate an ability to catch up and be willing to spend considerable time doing self-study. Furthermore, it is essential that these new programmers show that they have a strong work ethic. Unfortunately, this may mean working longer hours.

Having said that, the market is wide open for those programmers with four years or more experience. Programmers with years of experience and a proven ability to do the job and meet deadlines are a valuable resource for the company.
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