I have been in the software industry for a couple of decades now. Would like to end my career as a software developer. Is it too late? I have no formal education in CS but I have been writing code as a hobby for 30+ years I have contributed to and even developed some of my own OSS and some tools/automation. I am currently in support, TC 240k (130 base, 11% bonus, the rest RSU vesting) but I am frustrated by lack of advancement as I have been at same level for 4 years with no real prospects for future advancement. Considering a coding boot camp but I don't want to spend the $ if it won't help me actually get a software developer position. Staying at current company would be best for unvested RSU's but I have already reached my biggest cliff from the original grants at hiring and I have heard that Atlassian only hires senior developers so moving to another company is an option as well Can a 45+ YO get a first time software developer job? Or is this industry like football where you just never see first time players who have reached a mature age.
It would be a lie if I say you are not late, but you are not “too” late. There are retirees who begin studying other fields. If they can do it, you can do it, but it will require a lot of effort, sacrifice (in terms of your TC and lifestyle). Theres no easy shortcut, and this fact doesnt change for every single person. Be prepared before you change.
I've seen older software developers especially in govt contracting. Someone somewhere will hire you. Might not be your dream company at first without experience (yet) but you could get there.
Easiest path might be to internally transfer to a dev role or do a rotation to see if it makes sense.
Very few have been able to make the transition from support to Development that I have witnessed at Atlassian. This is what I will try first though
If it’s hard internally it will be harder externally. Leverage your credibility and network internally to get a shot.
What are your motivators? Interesting work? Higher TC? If you want to keep going and are highly motivated, capable enough to pick up new skills, willing to put in the time for the learning curve, and willing to take an initial pay cut, I don’t see why not. If you can afford it and it’s worth it to you then go for it.
Motivators are: I love writing software, when I am coding I can get lost and time flys by. Working in support is repetitive and frankly boring. Higher potential TC is also a plus. I am maxed out at my current level and there are no further levels to achieve, at least not at Atlassian in support. The M levels are not where my strengths lie. I am an great #2 assisting a team leader but I don't think I would thrive in a strictly managerial role.
Be careful of boot camps - many are not worth it and will work against you getting a job. If you like the work and can take the initial pay cut, LC/study up, polish your resume to focus on your coding work, set up some side projects to show off and start interviewing. Good luck!
Ok I know a risky way. If you have money , apply for top 10 universities for masters degree. If they accept, quite job and become a student. Try new grad role with top companies ($150k TC if they select you. Be ready to do 6 rounds of interviews for a offer ). In 5 years you can go up to 300k. Do your math. May be current 250k is better math wise.
I would have to get bachelors degree before trying to get masters. That means at least 8 years of school, I have some money but not that much. I still have a mortgage and bills so no income for 4 - 8 years is a non starter.
That’s not true. Masters degree doesn’t need bachelors degree (in any top university). Your experience, referrals and cover letter (GRE score) can give you admission. In fact no need of GRE too if you do online MS. Do OMSCS and try new grad roles. That’s best for you as you don’t quite till you get new grad job (it’s all online). Good luck. At least Georgia tech will push you to learn CS. Apply today. But Don’t waste your time with none top universities.
Wouldn’t you be able to retire at 50 if you continue your current 240k job ?
You should go for it. Networking is key. You may need to take a side step before you get what you want. Find people who believe in you. Many devs don’t have a college degree in software engineering or CS. There are some online 1-year courses in CS from reputable universities. They can build confidence and establish credibility with people who do t know you.
Don’t you ever let anyone ever tell you you can’t do something, son
Thanks Will Smith