What Coding Language Should You Learn First?
In today’s job market, the majority of in-demand, high salary, secure careers involve technology. Just understanding and knowing the role technology plays in everyday functions is enough to set you apart. However, if you’re looking to make a significant career move, there’s one highly recommended skill you can acquire to start your tech journey: coding.
There are hundreds of coding languages out there, so how do you know which one you should learn first? Instead of endlessly scrolling through countless websites to find the answer, keep reading for our list of coding languages that are best suited to help you enter the technology career of your choice!
Why Learn to Code?
From buying a movie ticket to playing music, almost everything we do is supported by lines of code that come together to provide a function. We use code to create websites, games, apps, software, and so much more. So how exactly does it work? Coding is how we communicate with computers to produce a desired outcome.
Simply put, it’s a way to instruct a computer to perform a specific function. Similar to human languages, there are different coding languages that communicate different functions to a computer.
Having a general idea of how code works and using that knowledge to improve and create new features is a powerful skill in any industry. The benefits of adding coding knowledge to your resume are numerous. Not only will it set you apart from others, but you can expect a significant increase to your earning potential. Coding is also a skill set that is highly in demand and highly likely to stay in demand.
Also, learning to code opens the door to opportunities for careers in almost any industry, as well as freelance and remote working opportunities. The scope and potential of this skill is vast. This may seem intimidating at first, but you can always start by learning one and expanding your knowledge over time So, without further ado, let’s dive into some of the best coding languages to start with!
Top 4 Coding Languages with Potential Career Paths
HTML
HTML or HyperText Markup Language is the computer language behind web pages and applications. The term hypertext refers to text that references other text, while markup language refers to the different symbols inserted with text that change the style and structure of a text document. HTML tags specify parts of text as headings, paragraphs, links, and so on. In essence, HTML allows you to influence what a user sees on their screen.
It might surprise you to know that HTML is not considered a programming language. As a markup language, HTML does not actually modify or manipulate data. However, skills in HTML still classify you as a coder in a markup language. Being skilled in HTML is also a common prerequisite for IT and front-end development careers. Should you combine your HTML skills with other programming languages, you’ll find yourself being able to create the bulk of webpages and applications. For this reason, we recommend learning HTML as it is the foundation needed for careers in front end development. Most importantly, it is widely used and beginner friendly!
JavaScript
One of the most widely used programming languages JavaScript is used in web development, mobile applications, game development, and web servers. This language is responsible for the behavior of a web page. This includes features such as clickable buttons, animated content, graphics, and interactive capabilities. JavaScript is the code behind online shopping carts, syncing audio to video, image rollovers, and other common user-oriented applications.
Due to its wide use, JavaScript is highly sought after by hiring managers. Frontend development, user interface design, and web application development are all careers that require a knowledge of JavaScript. Additionally, if combined with HTML or CSS, JavaScript is even more potent. It might also reassure you to know that JavaScript is considered a beginner friendly language! In fact, it is often regarded as one of the easiest programming languages to learn. If designing user-friendly and dynamic web page features seems interesting to you, then learning JavaScript is a critical first step!
Python
Python is a general-purpose programming language that is regarded as another easy programming language to learn and use. Python’s powerful abilities have led to its popularity as the go-to language for back-end development. In fact, Python is the code behind popular websites such as YouTube, Google, Spotify, Instagram, and even Reddit to name a few! Python is used in data analytics, science, website development, imaging, animation, and even video games. Python’s extensive libraries, community-oriented platform, user-friendly features, and overall flexibility has made it the backbone of many popular services.
Learning Python would open up opportunities in a number of different tech roles. While some functions of Python are applied to frontend development, Python is more powerful with backend development functions or even full stack development roles. Some applications of Python can include optimizing algorithms, enforcing security and protection measures, ensuring high performance across features, data analytics, and designing databases. Python is also widely used across industries and would allow for variety in day-to-day tasks.
Learning Python is beginner friendly due to its readability and easy-to-use structural elements. Python is especially great for English speakers and makes it easy to memorize basic syntax structures. If you’re seeking to advance your career using Python, we recommend you first gain a basic understanding of its features and then learn advanced features that are applicable to the demands of your role.
Swift/Kotlin
Applications are everywhere. Any app that you can name was written by a team of programmers. If you’ve ever had the desire to write your own app, create an app for your business, or even set up apps for others, then learning coding languages for operating systems such as iOS and Android would be your best bet!
Since an app is developed for a specific operating system, there are different programming languages that best suit that operating system. To write an app for Apple’s iOS system, you can learn Swift, which is a programming language developed by Apple. Similarly, Kotlin is a programming language suited for applications written for an Android operating system. Learning either language, or perhaps even both, will allow you to begin your career as an app developer. App developers work independently or with teams to produce apps for different operating systems. This is a skill that is sought after by many as there is high demand to develop mobile apps quickly and efficiently. Additionally, both Swift and Kotlin make writing apps both easier and faster. Swift and Kotlin are relatively easy to learn and need at least 2–3 months to learn. If you decide to learn these languages, maybe one day we’ll all be able to use an app that you wrote!
Our Pick: Python
Picking a programming language to start with should be dependent on your career goals. JavaScript and HTML lead to fron end and website design jobs, while Swift and Kotlin open up paths in app development. However, for those seeking to generally enter a tech career, Python is the most versatile option. Python allows for a mix of frontend and backend development, and opens opportunities in a plethora of technology functions. In addition to far-reaching career prospects, Python is extremely beginner-friendly and known for its user-friendly syntax. As an added bonus, learning other programming languages after Python is even easier!
Ready to Get Started?
Learning to code does not have to feel daunting! The most important part of learning to code is your mindset. Coding can be fun and there are different resources to assist you along the way. One of our top recommendations is coding bootcamps. Bootcamps allow you to learn coding in a guided and streamlined process. Most importantly, bootcamps are usually accompanied by a certificate which you can add to your resume. If you want to learn more about coding bootcamps you can click here for our list of the Best Coding Bootcamps in 2022.
Careers in Web Development: Which One's For You?
We all have our favorite websites– the ones we frequent, bookmark, and recommend to others. You might even enjoy some website features so much that you’ve found yourself wondering why they aren’t more popular. Or maybe you’ve experienced times where you were frustrated with a website and wished you could add features or even design your own!
If you’ve ever found yourself intrigued at the prospect of designing and developing your own websites, then a career as a web developer might be just for you!
As a web developer you would be responsible for coding, designing, optimizing, and maintaining websites. Today, there are over 1.7 billion websites in the world and, in turn, the demand for web developers is on the rise. In order to figure out what kind of web development work best suits you let’s start with an introduction to the three main roles in web development that you can choose from.
The Three Types of Web Development Jobs
Front-End Web Development: The Creative Side
Think of front-end development as the décor of a house. The color scheme, furniture, manicured lawns, and overall aesthetic. In terms of a website, front-end development is laser-focused on the appearance of a website and its presentation on different devices. If you’re considering a role in front-end development, it’s important to learn programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These three languages go hand-in-hand. HTML allows you to create user interface elements, CSS helps you with stylistic elements, and JavaScript allows you to incorporate online tools and connect your website to back-end functions.
In addition to programming skills, front-end developers need to be detail oriented, creative, willing to keep up with the latest trends in web development, cyber security conscious, and geared toward user-friendly designs. The median salary for a front-end developer can reach well into the $90,000 to $100,000 range.
Back-End Web Development: The Logical Counterpart
While a house can be beautifully decorated, it’s incomplete without a solid foundation and efficient infrastructure. Similarly, a well-designed website depends on logical and functional code to power the features of that website. Back-end web development is code-heavy and focused on the specifics of how a website works. If you enjoy the analytical challenge of creating the behind-the-scenes code that powers a website, then back-end development is for you.
Since this role is more code-heavy, it’s important that you learn numerous programming languages and understand algorithms and data structures. Some languages that are essential to back-end development are Ruby, Python, SQL, and JavaScript. Back-end developers also ensure that users can successfully retrieve and access data. This requires creating and using APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) which act as messengers that relay data related requests. Additionally, developing the code for the inner workings of a website also requires back-end developers to be conscious of the user interface features designed by front-end developers and to internally mitigate potential security risks. Due to the increased technical aspect of this position, back-end developers normally earn higher salaries than front-end developers. The average median salary for this role is around $118,000 per year.
Full-Stack Web Development: A Little Bit of Everything
A full-stack developer is essentially the Jack (or Jill)-of-all-trades in web development. Full-stack developers need to be knowledgeable about both front-end and back-end roles. This does not necessarily imply that you would need to be an expert in both roles, but you should fully understand the different applications and synergies they each imply. In order to work in this position, you will need to know the programming languages used by front-end and back-end developers. In addition to these languages, full-stack developers also specialize in databases, storage, HTTP, REST, and web architecture.
Full-stack developers are often required to act as liaisons between front-end and back-end developers. Full-stack developers need to be both problem solvers and great communicators. The end goal for a full-stack developer is to ensure that the user’s experience is seamless, both on the front-end and on the back-end. In return, you can expect to earn a median salary of $100,000 – $115,000 a year for this role.
Taking the Next Step
Web development is both in-demand and lucrative! All three roles described above contribute to specific aspects of web development and the scope of each one can be customized to the industries and positions you feel best suit you. Regardless of which role you choose, all of them need a foundation in programming.
To gain the programming skills needed in each role, you can enroll in courses or learn independently. Coding bootcamps are a great way to boost your skillset quickly and efficiently.
Click here for some of our highly rated programming bootcamp options! Make sure to check out the discounts available to PowerToFly members.
10 In-Demand High Income Skills You Can Learn in 2022
If you have been searching for ways to increase your income this year, then learning a new skill might be the solution for you.
As the job market evolves, so do the skills that employers desire. Whether you are creative, people-driven, technical, or analytical, you can always learn something new in your area of expertise to help you progress in your professional career. Because as we all know, the more you can add to your resume, the more desirable you become to prospective employers. And thanks to today’s unique job market, some of the most in-demand skills of 2022 have the potential to turn your income into 6-figures.
We have curated a list of the top skills of the year, their salary ranges, and some resources to help you begin your education. Whether you want to propel your career forward or are looking to negotiate for a higher salary, learning a high income skill is a valuable investment in your future – one you can start today!
Top 10 In-Demand High Income Skills
1. UX Design
The UX designer’s role is invaluable in delivering quality products to customers while also meeting the needs of the business. Being able to understand both the consumer and the developer is a key skill towards excellence in production. With UX designers in increasingly high demand, $89,822-$161,000 can be expected annually.
Whether you’re new to UX design or want to level up your skills, there are plenty of online and in-person resources like our partner, Springboard’s UX Design Bootcamp, and Google’s free Certificate.
2. Data Analysis
Data is everywhere, and we all know how important it is when it comes to decision-making and the future of business. So, it only makes sense that data analytics interpretation and usage would be the next skill on our list. Because data and numbers drive every industry, data analysts can expect to make $73,746-$153,000 annually.
To help introduce you to data analysis, Coursera offers both free and paid courses.
3. Cloud Computing
In a time where work and education are becoming increasingly remote, helping businesses securely store and manage their data is a valuable ability. Perhaps this is why cloud computing is the one of the most in-demand, high income skills of 2022. And as a cloud computing professional, it’s possible to make $86,997-$330,000 per year!.
PowerToFly partners with Microsoft to offer a quarterly Cloud Computing Challenge to help you develop your skills and add them to your resume. You can also learn more about cloud computing here.
4. SEO
It’s no secret that Search Engine Optimization plays a big role in theonline success of businesses and brands, and companies are willing to pay big to have their websites rank higher on Google search results’. This is why understanding best SEO practices is the next skill on our list, and why it can rake in $69,629-$137,000 a year.
If you’re unsure of where to begin your education, Backlinko can help you get started on learning best SEO practices.
5. Coding
While coding is a skill that requires time and patience to learn, it’s indispensable knowledge in this increasingly digital age. Regardless of the field, there is always a need for someone who can competently and skillfully code, and the annual $68,105-$135,000 that comes with this ability reflects just how valuable it is.
Check out our list of Best Coding Bootcamps of 2022, Codeacademy which has both free and paid courses available, and App Academy Open which offers its entire coding curriculum for free.
6. Video Editing
YouTube and TikTok have proven just how impactful video content can be for marketing, and just as the written word requires editing, so does film! Experienced video editors are hugely in-demand, and with the possibility of earning $69,817-$143,000 annually, it is certainly not an unwise skill to add to your resume.
Here is a detailed article for those who want to get started in video editing but aren’t sure where to begin.
7. Sales
Since sales directly impact how much a company or business earns, the desire for adept salespeople is endless. And because this role has commission-based pay, the earnings for a skilled salesperson can range from a base salary of $71,267-$167,000 with the possibility of even higher.
If you’re unsure of where to begin, HubSpot Academy offers free courses in sales to jumpstart your education.
8. Translation
With international business growing, so is the need for translators. Knowing a second language is a skill that many companies need to improve their cross-cultural communication, and with translation it is possible to earn $62,529-$171,000 annually or to use your skill to negotiate for a higher salary.
To start learning, practicing, or perfecting a language, both Duolingo and Babbel are free and excellent resources.
9. Technical Writing
Technical writers play an essential role in helping companies better communicate with their audience. In a society where tech rules, this important skill is vital in a variety of fields, and as a technical writer it is possible to earn a salary between $76,523-$153,000.
If you are confused about where to begin your education, here are some Technical Writing Courses to help get you started.
10. Digital Marketing
With so much business being conducted online, the need for digital marketing is higher than ever. It has quickly become the most effective means of marketing today, making digital marketers an indispensable asset to any business. The high demand and the $74,373-$260,000+ paycheck makes digital marketing a wise skill to invest in.
Check out our article on Digital Marketing Career Growth to learn a little bit more about what a digital marketer is, does, and how to make the most out of your career with this skill.
How to Develop and Learn High Income Skills
Utilize free resources. There are plenty of free educational resources available online to help with developing and learning new skills. Here at PowerToFly we offer a number of free resources on our website, but other sites like YouTube, Coursera, and Grow with Google also offer a number of free programs that you can take advantage of today.
Invest in a paid course. If going back to school doesn’t sound appealing but you would like to take your education a step further, investing in a paid online course is a great option. Sites like LinkedIn, Skillshare, and Springboard offer low monthly subscriptions to gain access to hundreds of different courses, while Udemy provides courses at set costs in a variety of fields.
Take formal classes. If you are serious about your new skill and want to pursue it professionally, there is always the option of university courses or committing to gaining a degree. While a degree is not necessarily required for these skills, it is always an excellent addition to any resume and can help you obtain a more well-rounded and in-depth education that free resources may not be able to offer.
Find a mentor. By finding a mentor who has faced similar challenges and held the same goals, you can have access to an important support system to help you move forward in your professional journey. While there are different mentorship opportunities available online, we offer a variety of mentorship options here at PowerToFly. We want to help you achieve your career goals and reach your full potential by receiving the catered support that you need.
Find an internship or job. The best way to learn a high income skill is to immerse yourself in it. By gaining hands-on experience through a job or internship, you will be able to practice what you have learned in a professional environment while expanding your knowledge along the way. Keep an eye out, because we are always updating our website with available jobs and internships!
8-80 Coding: Supporting tech for all ages in Philadelphia
Uber
Below is an article originally written by Craig Ewer at PowerToFly Partner Uber, and published on October 30, 2017. Go to Uber's page on PowerToFly to see their open positions and learn more.
At Uber, we believe that technology is for everyone — whether you're a student in a Philadelphia Public School or someone looking for a new career later in life. That's why today we're excited to launch 8-80 Coding, a new initiative to support technology education for people of all ages in Philadelphia.
Beginning this month, we're working with three of the region's top nonprofits to expand coding education for kids and adults. From our rec centers to our tech centers, we want Philadelphians to have access to the work opportunities generated by tech education, but also to experience the personal satisfaction and fun of building something new. In the process, we hope to expand the pipeline of people historically underrepresented in technology and make Philadelphia's tech community more reflective of our community as a whole.
"I'm excited that a global company as big as Uber understands the value of providing free coding programs in Philadelphia. Tech education is crucial, not only for our schoolchildren, who will receive some of this training, but for also for adults seeking new skills and jobs. There are many tech jobs for which you don't need a college degree, but you do need the right training. Uber and the great local nonprofits with whom the company is teamed will have tremendous success in promoting diversity in coding and tech education and ultimately job growth. I look forward to helping out any way I can to make this a great project for Philadelphia."
– City Councilman-at-Large Allan Domb
Here's what we have in store for the next 12 months:
The ITEM advocates for better inclusion in the tech industry as a way to reduce systemic inequality, and, with our support, they have established a new scholarship program for continuing adult education. Through the end of 2017, four Uber Scholars will complete a course on Amazon Web Services, a highly valued certification for employers in today's competitive job market. These scholars will also be eligible for mentoring opportunities with members of Uber's engineering team.
"The ITEM's mission vis-a-vis the students of our academy is simple: Trained. Certified. Hired. Uber's support of our students being trained and certified as AWS Solutions Architect Associates is a major boost to our vision of all Philadelphians accessing our emerging technology sector."
– Kahiga Tiagha, Cofounder of The ITEM
Coded by Kids offers free tech education for children ages 5-18, primarily through in-school and extracurricular coding projects. As part of 8-80 Coding, we're supporting Coded by Kid's yearlong coding class at the Academy at Palumbo public high school in South Philadelphia, where students will learn the basics of web development (HTML, CSS, etc.) and complete a project for their web portfolios.
"We are excited to work with Uber to ensure Philadelphia's pipeline of tech talent is diverse and well prepared to compete in the innovation economy. Uber knows that jobs are becoming increasingly more technical and skilled, and by investing in a Pathways into Tech program they are making a commitment to provide more students with the opportunity to get those technical skills."
– Maggie Deptola, COO, Coded by Kids
Finally, we're supporting TechGirlz, whose mission is "to inspire middle school girls to explore the possibilities of technology to empower their future careers." Through a series of workshops and special events, TechGirlz is helping create the next generation of female coders and working to close the gender gap in technology.
"We are excited to be part of the 8-80 Coding program and by Uber's support of our mission to inspire girls on the path to empowered careers in technology. Uber's innovative roots and renewed commitment to positive change make it a great partner in championing our new model for women in technology."
– Tracey Welson-Rossman, Founder and CEO of TechGirlz
These three initiatives are only the beginning. With our partners, we're ready to make a difference in Philadelphia and continue building a future that is more diverse and more inclusive.