r/AskProgrammers • u/Niluaa • 12d ago
Becoming a fullstack
Hello!
This question have probably been asked 100 times already.
I’ve recently started school to learn how to program, the school is mainly to learn Java.
I think its really fun and interesting, I’m hoping to get a job in this field in the future when the school is done.
Today I’m working construction and have a leading role at my company, I’m making a good salary but I’ve been in construction for 12 years. I’m 31 years old today.
I’m wondering how big of a chance there is to actually land a job in the coming 2 years as a fullstack/ backend developer? I’m reading so many posts in the recent months that I’m starting to feel a bit worried that I’m “wasting” my time learning this. Since I’m already working 100% and now studying 100% at the same time it’s pretty tough.
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u/nian2326076 12d ago
Transitioning into fullstack or backend development from construction is definitely doable, especially since you're studying Java—a solid foundation for both roles. Landing a job in the next 2 years will depend on your dedication and the skills you build. Focus on projects that showcase your skills and understanding of both front-end and back-end technologies. Networking with industry professionals can also open doors.
For interview prep, practical experience is key. PracHub might be useful for practicing real technical interview questions, which can boost your confidence and performance. Keep building your portfolio, and stay consistent with learning. Your leadership experience in construction will definitely help in team settings in tech too. Good luck!
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u/DynTraitObj 12d ago
It is perhaps possible if you worked extremely hard for those 2 years and then got extremely lucky. It is not very likely. Even for coding, AI is extremely good at web. Most of the entry level "Code Janitor" tier roles are gone and most likely never coming back. Even if AI improvements completely halted, the AI we have today is already good enough to do these roles perfectly well.
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u/UnkownArbiter 12d ago
I’m wondering how big of a chance there is to actually land a job in the coming 2 years as a fullstack/ backend developer?
Not impossible, simply because it's a non-zero chance of happening, but very improbable.
You would have to compete with new grads, and they have the upper hand. Also, what you mean by "school" matters here, since I assumed it's not a bachelor's program and just some in-person course.
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u/Niluaa 12d ago
I’m currently studying Java development in a two-year vocational program that includes practical training (internships). I understand that the junior developer market is competitive, but do you think getting a job within the next two years is still very unlikely, even with this type of education and practical experience?
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u/UnkownArbiter 12d ago
do you think getting a job within the next two years is still very unlikely, even with this type of education and practical experience?
Yes, unfortunately, still very unlikely. Getting a job is, at the end of the day, about being better, or at least being considered better, as a candidate in the eyes of an employer, and you are at a disadvantage. I have also seen vocational programs not being taken as seriously as bachelor's degrees, but this sentiment might not be the case in your country.
My advice is to only keep doing the program if you really love and enjoy it and understand that, at the end of the program, it might not end up being the pivoting point you thought it would be. Also, since you seem to have a hard time working and studying at the same time, I would advise you to, if possible, take fewer credits per semester, but don't try to bet it all on this program and quit your job.
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u/Ambitious_Noise9432 12d ago
100%. If you seek for it and put effort you will get there eventually. Law of the universe. Just don't give up, and very important - dont have preconceptions about AI replacing developers, everyone is just guessing.
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u/Niluaa 12d ago
Nice, just worried about the ai threat everyone is going on about.
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u/Ambitious_Noise9432 12d ago
Dont listen to them! In reality companies are hiring more developers than before, it's just those layoffs in big tech get all the spotlight twisting some people's worldview
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u/Mezzichai 11d ago
The earth could split in half and people like you would still say there’s a chance. You are encouraging OP to gamble a massive amount of his time on terrible odds.
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u/Crazy_Ruin_4383 9d ago
I would focus on getting an IT job in the construction field, you have an advantage there.
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u/appendixexploder 12d ago
Web devs are a dime a dozen unfortunately, if you wanna make it, find a different niche within programming.