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Crack the Code: Take Your Resume to the Next Level with Programming Skills

August 15, 2022 | Heather Fletcher

Programming student coding on double screens

In today’s world of information and technology, one of the most sought-after skills is understanding data and knowing how to interact with it. If you are interested in technology and how it can be applied to solve problems, picking up programming skills could be the boost that your resume needs to stand out in your next job search.

The benefits of programming skills are limitless. Not only will a basic knowledge of programming languages allow you to advance professionally, but learning to incorporate data into your decision-making is a valuable and highly transferable skill across any industry. Even in non-technical roles, understanding coding concepts can help you effectively communicate with IT professionals and developers. 

Here are five more reasons why you should consider developing your skills in programming:

1. Competitive salary opportunities for in-demand skill sets. 
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that computer and information technology employment will grow 13% between 2020 and 2030, which is faster than the average projected growth rate across all occupations (8%).

As more non-traditional IT careers begin to include programming skills, having background knowledge of programming concepts is an asset in any position. This means if you already possess the soft skills for a given position, having additional knowledge of coding languages can provide a competitive edge over more traditional candidates. 

2. Polish your problem-solving skills and creative abilities. 
At their core, programmers are problem solvers. Computer programming is about learning to speak the language of computers and designing solutions accordingly. Creativity and problem-solving in computer programming go hand-in-hand as both require the ability to continuously innovate and adapt to new challenges.  

3. Simplify your day-to-day tasks.  
Learning to code can make your life easier in a variety of ways. Many manual processes are becoming digitized and automated. Small programs can often be easily designed to automate and streamline various tasks. Knowing how to write these types of programs can enhance your productivity and strengthen your new skill set in the process. 

4. A career that grows with your skills.
No matter what field you currently work in, gaining a working knowledge of the techniques used in coding shows your willingness to learn and adapt. As your skill set develops further, you’ll gain a clearer idea of areas for specialization and more opportunities to gain more practical experience.    

5. Programming courses are available for any level of experience.
Learning programming skills can be as intensive of a process as you’d like. With online training options ranging from 6-week introductory courses to self-paced career training programs and more intensive web development bootcamps, you can decide how much time and effort you are looking to dedicate to growing this new skill set. Luckily programming skills are easily expanded on, meaning you can begin developing basic coding skills and transition into more complex programming concepts as your knowledge increases. Or, if you’re feeling ready to dive in feet first, consider a Full Stack Web Development Bootcamp and learn a variety of coding languages in a condensed format.

Develop or expand your programming skills today with convenient, online courses from UWF Continuing Education.  

Six-Week Skill Development Courses 

Online Career Training 

Six Month Bootcamps