Become aProgrammer

Imagine having the power to bring your wildest ideas to life with just a few keystrokes. As a Programmer, you’ll be innovating, shaping the digital landscape of tomorrow. Whether you’re passionate about gaming, cybersecurity, or building apps that make life easier, programming offers so many opportunities to make a meaningful impact and unleash your creativity like never before.

• Create super cool software and digital tools.
• Solve important problems with technology.
• Develop new apps used by millions globally.
• Shape the future of tech and innovation.

As a Programmer, your main gig is to write, test, and maintain the code that powers software applications, websites, and various digital platforms. You’ll be looking at things from a different view, troubleshooting glitches, and collaborating with a team of tech enthusiasts to turn concepts into reality.

A Day in the Life of a Programmer:

Write and Debug Code
Spend a large part of the day writing new code or fixing bugs in existing programs to ensure software runs smoothly.

Collaborate with Teams
Work with designers, developers, and project managers to align software features with project goals and user needs.

Test Software Features
Run tests on new software updates or features to identify any issues and ensure everything functions as intended.

Review and Optimise Code
Review code written by team members, offering feedback and suggestions to improve efficiency and readability.

Attend Team Meetings
Participate in meetings to discuss project progress, troubleshoot issues, and brainstorm new features or improvements.

Learn New Programming Languages
Dedicate time to learning new programming languages or frameworks to stay updated with the latest technologies and trends

As a Programmer, your skills are in demand across a bunch of industries, making you a versatile asset in today’s digital age!

• Gaming
• Finance
• Healthcare
• E-commerce
• Cybersecurity
• Artificial Intelligence

Are you looking to level up your skill set? Here are some essential skills every aspiring Programmer should master.

• Problem Solving
• Logical thinking
• Attention to detail
• Teamwork
• Adaptability
• Creativity

Want to lay the foundation for a successful career in programming? Here are some key subjects that will help equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to rock out in the digital world.

• Mathematics (for algorithms and problem solving)
• Computer Science (for understanding fundamental concepts)
• Physics (for understanding how computers work)
• Information Technology (for practical skills in software development)

As a Programmer, you have the power to turn dreams into code and code into reality!

• Create a Game from Scratch
  Develop a new video game, designing characters, coding gameplay mechanics, and testing it to make sure it’s fun and engaging.
• Build a Personal AI Assistant
  Code an AI assistant that can answer questions, set reminders, and even tell jokes, making everyday tasks easier and more fun.
• Develop a Music App
  Design an app that uses algorithms to create personalised playlists or even generate original music based on a user’s mood.
• Hack a Virtual Reality Experience
  Work on a project to create a virtual reality environment, like a digital forest or futuristic city, where people can explore and interact.
• Contribute to Open Source Projects
  Collaborate with programmers worldwide on exciting open-source projects, such as building new tools, games, or websites.
• Optimise a Social Media Platform
  Improve a social media platform’s performance by speeding up loading times or creating new features that enhance user engagement and enjoyment.

Programming has its rock stars too! Meet some of the brilliant women redefining the tech landscape in Australia:

Marita Cheng

Founder of Robogals and an award-winning entrepreneur, Marita started her journey in tech by learning to program. She has since created apps, robotics, and AI solutions, becoming a prominent advocate for women in STEM.

Vanessa Doake

A cofounder of Code Like a Girl, Vanessa is dedicated to making programming accessible to women and girls across Australia. She combines her programming expertise with a passion for social impact and technology education.

Nicky Ringland

As a software engineer and cofounder of the Australian Computing Academy, Nicky works to develop programming curriculum for schools and promote computer science education for all students.

Katherine Daniels

A software engineer and technology consultant, Katherine is recognised for her contributions to tech communities in Australia. She actively promotes best practices in software development and encourages more women to pursue careers in programming.

Let’s explore some personality traits that could help you get noticed in this high demand industry.

• Curiosity
• Persistence
• Analytical thinking
• Collaboration
• Patience
• Adaptability

You can opt for a traditional route by pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or Information Technology. These courses will equip you with the technical skills and knowledge needed to excel in the world of programming.

Bachelor of Computer Science or Software Engineering: A degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering is one of the most comprehensive ways to prepare for a career in programming. This pathway provides indepth knowledge of programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and software development practices. For example, The University of Western Australia (UWA) offers a Bachelor of Computer Science, where students learn to design, build, and maintain complex software systems. The program includes courses in artificial intelligence, cyber security, and data science, equipping students with essential skills needed in the tech industry.

Bachelor of Information Technology (IT): For a broader focus, a degree in Information Technology provides foundational knowledge in computer science while also covering aspects of networking, databases, and systems management. Monash University offers a Bachelor of IT with specialisations in software development and data science, preparing students for versatile roles in the tech industry.

Master’s in Software Development or Cyber Security: A master’s degree provides specialised knowledge and is ideal for those looking to deepen their expertise. For instance, The University of Melbourne offers a Master’s in Software Engineering, focusing on advanced programming techniques, software design, and agile project management. Similarly, RMIT University offers a Master’s in Cyber Security, teaching how to secure software applications and systems, an increasingly valuable skill in today’s digital landscape.

Graduate Certificates in Programming or Web Development: Shorter postgraduate courses such as Graduate Certificates in Programming or Web Development, like those offered at Murdoch University in WA, allow students to quickly gain essential skills and can be completed in as little as six months.

Ever thought about mixing things up a bit? Imagine combining your passion for programming with another subject you love, like music, art, or even psychology! Yep, you heard that right – interdisciplinary studies are all the rage these days. By blending degrees or adding extra subjects to your course load, you’ll not only expand your skill set but also open doors to exciting career opportunities you might not have considered before.

So, whether you’re dreaming of creating the next epic video game or revolutionising healthcare with your coding skills, there’s no limit to what you can achieve with a little creativity and a whole lot of determination!

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of your favourite apps and games? During your studies, you’ll learn a whole bunch of cool stuff, including:

• Mastering programming languages like Python, Java, and C++
• Understanding algorithms and data structures
• Designing and developing software applications
• Testing and debugging code
• Collaborating with teams to bring projects to life

But hey, that’s just the tip of the iceberg! With every line of code you write, you’ll be one step closer to becoming a programming prodigy!

Let’s talk about where to start gaining valuable work experience in the field:

• Local Tech Communities
  • Get involved in your local tech community! Attend meetups, hackathons, and networking events to connect with other developers and industry professionals. Joining tech communities not only gives you the chance to learn from others but also opens up opportunities for internships, mentorship, and even job referrals. Check out platforms like Meetup.com to find tech events happening near you.
• Freelancing
  • If you’re a self-starter who’s eager to tackle coding projects right away, freelancing might be the perfect option for you. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr allow you to offer your programming services to clients around the world. Whether you’re building websites, developing mobile apps, or providing technical support, freelancing gives you the flexibility to work on your own terms and gain valuable experience along the way.
• Personal Projects
  • Don’t underestimate the power of personal projects! Building your own software projects, whether it’s a website, a mobile app, or a game, not only allows you to apply your coding skills in a practical way but also demonstrates your passion and initiative to potential employers. Plus, you have complete creative control over your projects, so you can tailor them to your interests and showcase your unique talents.
• Tech Apprenticeships
  • Apprenticeships provide workplace training and mentorship while earning a salary. Companies like Atlassian and Telstra offer tech apprenticeships that focus on software development, IT support, and data analysis, giving aspiring programmers hands-on experience in real-world environments.
• Check out: https://www.apprenticeships.gov.au/tools/field-officer-briefs/ICT 
• Internships with Tech Companies
  • Gaining experience through internships is an excellent way to develop programming skills. Tech giants such as Google Australia or startups in tech hubs like Sydney or Melbourne offer exposure to new and emerging technologies and software development practices. In Western Australia, companies like Bankwest and Woodside Energy provide opportunities for you to work on tech projects.

Remember, gaining work experience as a programmer is all about taking initiative, being proactive, and seizing opportunities as they come your way. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up your IDE, and get ready to power up an exciting journey into the world of coding!

So, you wanna become a Programmer, but you’re not too keen on the whole university thing? No worries – there are plenty of alternative pathways to kickstart your career in tech and there is no right or wrong way!

• Coding Bootcamps
  • Coding bootcamps provide intensive training in programming languages and software development. These short term courses are designed to equip you with practical skills in a matter of months. General Assembly and Coder Academy offer coding bootcamps in Sydney and Melbourne that cover web development, software engineering, and data science.
• Online Courses
  • Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and edX offer online courses in various programming languages such as Python, Java, and JavaScript. These courses are self managed (so you might need to polish up your time management skills!) and provide flexibility for learners who wish to study alongside other commitments. Certifications from these platforms can enhance your resume and demonstrate your programming skills to employers.
• Join Professional Communities
  • Getting involved in professional networks like Women in Technology WA, Women Who Code Australia or The Australian Computer Society (ACS) provides access to mentorship, workshops, and networking events. These communities help you stay updated on industry trends and connect with other professionals and potential employers.
• Attend Hackathons and Tech Meetups
  • Participating in hackathons or local tech meetups, like those hosted by Perth{Web}Girls or StartupWA, can help you apply your programming skills in creative ways, build a portfolio, and meet other programmers and tech enthusiasts.
• Open Source Contributions
  • Ever heard of open source software? It’s software that’s freely available for anyone to use, modify, and distribute. Contributing to open source projects is a fantastic way to hone your coding skills, collaborate with other developers, and make a meaningful impact on the world. Plus, it looks great on your CV!

So, whether you’re a self-taught coding whizz or prefer to learn on the job, there’s no shortage of opportunities to kickstart your career in programming!

A career in programming offers global opportunities. There is no limit to where your career in programming could take you.

Western Australia

From mining to healthcare, Western Australia is always looking for new programmers. Whether you fancy working for a tech startup in Perth or joining a multinational company in the resources sector, there’s something for everyone in the wild west!

Australia

Down under, the land of kangaroos and koalas, offers a diverse range of career opportunities for Programmers. Whether you’re based in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, you’ll find plenty of tech companies and startups looking for talented coders to join their ranks.

Rest of the World

Beyond Australia’s shores, the world is your oyster! Whether you’re drawn to the bustling tech hubs of Silicon Valley, the cultural melting pot of London, or the innovative spirit of Tokyo, there’s a whole world of opportunities waiting for you to step in.