Computer Programming Is the Key to Skilled Labor Jobs

As Bill Kelly recently discussed, thousands of skilled labor positions are going unfilled because the current workforce isn't adequately trained to perform these jobs. Since these jobs frequently offer substantial salaries and job security, the lack of qualified applicants is particularly confusing. Experts attribute some of the problems to an emphasis on attending college instead of trade schools. Many adults already in the workforce do not want to commit to seeking a programming degree. Fortunately, you do not have to. Instead of attending a four-year college to improve your career options, you should consider taking a few computer programming courses. This skill opens the door to positions in almost every industry, improving your employment future.

Why Computer Programming?

While most of the population can now effectively use a computer or at least work a smartphone, most have no idea what makes them work. Usually, all you need to do is type in a web address or use a search engine to find the information you need. People who use computers all day, every day can actually be computer illiterate. Someone has to program the computers to follow commands. Experts must develop software that makes complicated processes easy for the general public. When you learn how to program a computer, you have a skill that is needed in most industries. Those who are programming experts can write their own career ticket.

Even if you do not want to program computers for a living, you need to understand the basics. Having the skill can get you "in the door" and lead to jobs you find more desirable.

Learning computer programming cultivates critical thinking and helps potential employees learn "clarity of expression." Precision is important, otherwise the computer will not perform correctly. Although computer languages such as Fortran, Lisp, and COBOL have been around for decades, industries still depend on them. Employers also want employees who know Python, JavaScript and SQL, even if their job doesn't require actual programming. When you understand coding, you immediately improve your chances of being hired for well-paying jobs. In fact, approximately 50 percent of all jobs in the highest "income quartile" require the job hunter to have some background in coding.

Training

Fortunately, learning computer programming doesn't require going to college or pursuing a new degree. Workers of all ages can find these programs at community colleges, trade schools, and online. You won't have to acquire a huge debt to add this skill to your resume. Once you do have a programming background, you will find that you are attractive to many industries, including retail, construction, engineering, and teaching. Employers believe that learning the basics of programming allows employees to work better with the tech department and other specialized departments. Courses may cost several thousand dollars, but grants are available for continuing education, including Pell grants and FSEOG. Some employers will pay to send their current employees for this training, which can help the employer improve your value to the company and make you more employable in the future.

Workers who want to improve their employability and financial rewards should consider learning at least the basics of computer programming. This skill can move you quickly up the employment ladder by making you attractive to a number of companies. You may not actually program anything, but your understanding of the process makes you extremely valuable. If you are looking for a new job in the software engineering field, let Micro Tech Staffing Group help you in your search for a skilled labor position!