Last week we started a discussion of the different computer careers that are available and how to make a choice between them. This week we take up the role of the programmer. Despite the stereotypes that abound about computer programmers, at the very heart is a person, doing their job day after day, just like anyone else. Just like every job, though, there are specific requirements that dictate whether someone will be successful, or not.
Programmers are to every company what engineers are to construction companies.
They have the ability to develop something from nothing using only the power of their own mind and a few, relatively simple tools. Where construction workers create skyscrapers, programmers create systems of amazing complexity. Just like the building though, these systems give others a place to work. Programming requires focus of thought and energy. You have to be able to concentrate for long periods of time and go without interacting with the people around you.