Breaking into the tech industry, specifically programming, isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. For someone like me, who started their journey in a technical high school, the path has been anything but traditional. I earned a Level 3 qualification as a Computer Technician, focusing more on the hardware side of things. However, my career took a different turn after 2011 when I delved into digital content creation, marketing campaigns, strategy, and video editing. Programming only became a serious part of my life around 2018, when I joined ABC Soft.
At ABC Soft, I developed a web application using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Bootstrap, PHP, and SQL to manage stock levels and track real-time sales across physical stores. That was my first deep dive into web development, and it was eye-opening. The experience wasn’t limited to backend programming or creating the structure of a website from scratch; I had to learn how to balance multiple roles because the projects I worked on didn’t always have a big budget or the luxury of using paid tools.
Much of my coding journey has been born out of necessity. I learned by building websites for myself or friends, often relying on WordPress and WooCommerce for eCommerce solutions. As much as I’d love to have splurged on expensive plugins to make life easier, I found myself coding custom solutions instead. This hands-on experience in both frontend (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and backend (PHP, SQL, Python) development came not from formal education but from real-world problem-solving.
And that’s where the struggle begins.
The Challenges of Proving Yourself Without a Degree
Despite the skills I’ve accumulated, there’s always that nagging question: where’s the certification? Where’s the shiny piece of paper from a prestigious institution that proves I know what I’m doing? The truth is, I don’t have one. I don’t have a degree in Computer Science or Programming, nor do I have any certifications that would instantly validate my experience.
This lack of formal qualifications becomes a major roadblock when job hunting. As I scroll through LinkedIn or other job platforms, I often see listings for “junior” or “entry-level” developer roles that come with a laundry list of requirements. It’s not enough to know HTML, CSS, JavaScript, or PHP anymore. Companies are asking for experience with Agile methodologies, proficiency in tools like Figma, and certifications in various programming-related areas.
And that’s when I scratch my head.
The Unrealistic Expectations for Juniors
How can a junior developer, by definition someone just starting out, already be expected to know specialized software like Figma, Docker, or Kubernetes? How can someone applying for an entry-level position be required to have years of experience in methodologies like Agile or Scrum? These are environments and tools that are usually learned on the job, not before even stepping foot into the industry.
What’s even more frustrating is the assumption that you have a comprehensive portfolio, preferably showcasing years of polished work, despite being labeled a junior. When you don’t have a formal job history in programming or a degree to back you up, it feels like the industry has already decided you don’t belong.
Learning by Doing
In my case, learning by doing has been both a gift and a curse. On the one hand, it’s given me a solid understanding of web development, especially in environments where there’s little room for error. On the other hand, it doesn’t seem to carry as much weight with recruiters as formal education or professional certificates do.
But I’ve adapted. Whether it’s learning how to implement complex systems using WordPress and WooCommerce, coding custom features when a plugin would cost hundreds of euros, or finding ways to make things work without a pre-built solution, my experience is practical and hands-on. Unfortunately, in many hiring processes, that real-world experience isn’t always seen as valuable as it should be.
Looking Ahead
The tech industry, for all its innovation, often fails to recognize alternative paths into the field. Not everyone has the luxury of a Computer Science degree or the financial means to afford costly certifications. Some of us have learned through trial and error, by building what we need as we go. My journey into programming is far from over, and despite the obstacles, I’m confident that my skills and adaptability will eventually break through the noise.
It may not be the traditional route, but it’s mine.