Beyond Coding Podcast avatar

Dexa/Beyond Coding Podcast

Learn more
Published Nov 3, 2021

Self Taught Software Engineers // Beyond Coding Podcast #25 - Patrick Akil with Roy Derks

Patrick Akil and Roy Derks delve into the journey of self-taught software engineers, highlighting the crucial elements of persistence, practical experience, and evolving tech education. They share insights on strategic career growth, freelancing, early programming education, and the vital role of mentorship and communication skills in adapting to and thriving within the tech industry.
Episode Highlights
Beyond Coding Podcast logo

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Episode Highlights

  • Mindset Shift

    The journey from a developer to a strategic role involves a significant mindset shift. and discuss how developers often start by learning specific tools and languages, but true growth comes from understanding broader patterns and making informed decisions. Roy emphasizes the importance of experimenting with different languages to broaden one's perspective, stating, "If you're used to React and you're thinking components, then it's really hard to change your mindset into thinking into functions or thinking into objects."

    If you're used to React and you're thinking components, then it's really hard to change your mindset into thinking into functions or thinking into objects.

    ---

    This adaptability is crucial as developers mature into roles that require more strategic thinking and decision-making 1 2.

       

    Role Evolution

    The evolution of roles in technology highlights the distinction between developers and engineers. Patrick and Roy explore how developers are often seen as those who "get things done," while engineers focus on foundational aspects like architecture and long-term maintainability. Roy points out that despite these distinctions, foundational skills can be acquired through experience, not just formal education: "If you did a boot camp two years ago, you started working for a company, you got a lot of responsibility, you work a lot with maybe the senior members or the CTOs, and still you can get that foundational experience."

    If you did a boot camp two years ago, you started working for a company, you got a lot of responsibility, you work a lot with maybe the senior members or the CTOs, and still you can get that foundational experience.

    ---

    This conversation underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in the tech industry 3 4.

Related Episodes