Is “tech is a young person’s game” echoing in your mind? You’re not alone. Many individuals considering a career shift to programming at 40, 50, or even beyond grapple with the question: Am I too old to become a programmer?
The resounding answer is a firm no.
If the realm of Information Technology beckons you at 40 or later, know that embarking on this journey is not just possible, but entirely achievable. Countless individuals have successfully transitioned into programming careers, proving that age is no barrier to entry in the tech world.
This guide is designed to equip you with the insights and advice you need to confidently start a programming career at 40. Whether you’re taking your first steps in learning to code at 30, aiming to become a software engineer at 40, or exploring the best career retraining options at 50, you’ve come to the right place.
Why Choose Tech for a Midlife Career Change?
Transitioning to a tech career can be a strategic move for numerous compelling reasons. As you navigate your 40s and beyond, career options might seem to narrow. The prospect of starting an IT career at 40 or older might initially appear daunting, but the reality is that tech skills are highly versatile, opening doors across diverse industries, not just within the tech sector itself.
Here’s a closer look at the advantages of Starting A Programming Career At 40:
-
Career Advancement & Versatility: Learning to code is a powerful asset that can significantly enhance your career trajectory, regardless of your chosen field. In an increasingly digital world, tech proficiency is becoming a fundamental skill. Acquiring coding skills expands your professional toolkit, making you more adaptable and valuable in a wide array of roles and industries. From healthcare to finance, education to manufacturing, technology underpins operations, creating a demand for tech-savvy professionals in virtually every sector.
-
Increased Earning Potential: Tech roles, particularly software engineering, offer competitive salaries. The average annual salary for software engineers in the US is around $93,817, and even entry-level positions often exceed pay scales in other industries. For those starting a programming career at 40, this can translate to a significant increase in earning potential compared to previous fields, offering improved financial stability and opportunities for long-term financial growth.
-
High Demand & Job Security: The tech industry is experiencing robust growth, with a projected 13% increase in computer and information technology occupations from 2020 to 2030, significantly outpacing the average growth for all occupations. This high demand translates to greater job security and a more favorable job market for those entering the field. Starting a programming career at 40 positions you within a sector that offers long-term stability and ample opportunities for career progression.
-
Meaningful and Impactful Work: Tech careers often involve contributing to projects that have a tangible impact on the world. Programmers are at the forefront of innovation, developing solutions that address real-world problems and improve lives. Whether you’re working on applications that streamline healthcare, create sustainable energy solutions, or enhance educational platforms, a programming career offers the satisfaction of knowing your work is contributing to positive change and making a difference.
-
Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: Many tech roles offer flexible work arrangements, including remote work options and flexible hours. This can be particularly appealing for individuals seeking a better work-life balance, especially later in life. A career change to computer science can provide the flexibility to spend more time with family, pursue personal interests, or manage other life commitments, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing work-life integration.
-
Intellectual Stimulation and Variety: Coding careers are inherently challenging and diverse, offering continuous opportunities for learning and growth. The tech landscape is constantly evolving, requiring programmers to stay updated with new technologies and approaches. This dynamic environment keeps the work engaging and mentally stimulating, preventing burnout and fostering a sense of continuous professional development. For individuals seeking a career that challenges them intellectually and offers variety, programming is an excellent choice.
-
Future-Proof Career: Technology is not a fleeting trend; it’s the foundation of our modern world. The demand for tech skills is only set to increase, making tech jobs some of the most future-proof careers to pursue. Starting a programming career at 40 equips you with skills that will remain relevant and in demand for decades to come, providing long-term career security and peace of mind.
-
Personal Reinvention and Confidence Boost: Embarking on a new career path at 40 and beyond is a testament to your adaptability and willingness to learn. Successfully acquiring new skills and transitioning into tech can be incredibly empowering, boosting your confidence and sense of self-efficacy. Overcoming the challenge of learning to code and starting a new career chapter can inject a renewed sense of purpose and excitement into your professional life, proving to yourself that you are capable of achieving significant personal and professional growth at any age.
Moreover, starting a career in IT at 40+ can bring unique advantages. Your accumulated life experience, problem-solving skills honed over years, and a mature perspective are highly valuable assets in the tech industry. Employers increasingly recognize the benefits of diverse teams that include professionals from varied age groups and backgrounds.
Ultimately, coding careers are excellent options for retraining, even at 50 or beyond, offering flexibility, increased earning potential, and the chance to build a secure and fulfilling future.
Start coding now. Embrace the challenge and begin your learning journey.
Overcoming Common Fears About Career Change
Considering a significant life change like starting a programming career at 40 naturally brings forth anxieties and uncertainties. Questions like “Is it too late to learn programming?” or “Can I realistically become a coder after 50?” are common. Let’s address some of these prevalent fears and understand why they shouldn’t deter you from pursuing your tech aspirations.
Fear of Starting Over at 40+
The notion of embarking on a new career at 40 might feel like starting from zero, a daunting prospect of returning to square one. However, this perception is far from reality.
Regardless of your professional background, you’ve accumulated a wealth of valuable soft skills and industry-specific knowledge over the years. These transferable skills, combined with newly acquired tech expertise, create a unique and compelling professional profile. Your diverse experience is not a disadvantage but a significant asset.
For instance:
- Former Teacher + Tech Skills: A background in education coupled with programming skills makes you an ideal candidate for the EdTech sector. Your understanding of pedagogical principles combined with technical know-how allows you to contribute meaningfully to educational technology solutions.
- Former Server + Tech Skills: Experience in the hospitality industry combined with tech skills positions you perfectly for tech support or software development roles within the hospitality sector. Your firsthand experience in customer service and industry operations provides invaluable insight for developing relevant tech solutions.
Even if you’ve taken time off for family responsibilities, your life experience remains a valuable asset. Numerous family-focused companies in the tech industry actively seek professionals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
➡️ Hear from a coding career changer on Twitter:
Concerns About Ageism in Hiring
Worries about age discrimination and the preference for younger candidates in tech hiring are understandable. However, it’s crucial to recognize that many employers value the maturity, experience, and stability that older employees bring to a company.
Susan Ferugio, who learned JavaScript at 50 through MotherCoders, eloquently states, “Why wouldn’t a company want to hire someone over 50?! Our priorities are in order. As moms, we’ve been in difficult situations and have dealt with them, and we really want to do the work.” Her perspective highlights the dedication, problem-solving abilities, and commitment that older career changers often bring to the table.
Furthermore, legal protections such as the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) in the US explicitly prohibit age discrimination against individuals aged 40 and older, providing a legal framework against age-based bias in hiring practices.
Feeling Overwhelmed and Uncertain About Where to Start
The tech world can seem vast and complex, filled with unfamiliar jargon and a distinct culture, making a career change to programming feel overwhelming, regardless of age.
However, numerous resources and guides are available to simplify your transition. This article and the wealth of information available online are designed to provide clarity and direction. Start by exploring introductory resources, online courses, and communities to gradually familiarize yourself with the tech landscape and identify your areas of interest.
➡️ Find encouragement from coding career changers on Twitter:
Lack of Time for Retraining
Balancing existing job responsibilities, family commitments, and household management can make finding time for retraining seem impossible. However, with strategic time management and flexible learning options, integrating tech education into your busy life is achievable.
Consider these strategies:
- Microlearning: Dedicate small, consistent blocks of time each day, even just 30 minutes, to learning. Consistent short sessions are often more effective than infrequent long study periods.
- Flexible Online Courses: Opt for online courses that offer self-paced learning, allowing you to study at your convenience, anytime and anywhere.
- Identify Productive Times: Determine your most productive periods of the day or week and schedule your learning sessions accordingly.
Explore resources on time management specifically tailored for adult learners and career changers. Podcasts and articles featuring individuals who have successfully balanced career changes with demanding schedules can offer valuable insights and practical tips.
➡️ Find inspiration from coding career changers balancing life and learning on Twitter:
Concerns About the Cost of Retraining
Traditionally, career retraining often involved significant financial investment. However, the landscape of tech education has evolved, offering numerous affordable and even free pathways to acquire programming skills.
For a career change to coding, expensive college degrees are not always necessary. Cost-effective options include:
- Free and Low-Cost Online Courses: Numerous platforms offer free or very affordable coding courses. Explore over a hundred places to learn to code for free.
- Income Share Agreement (ISA) Bootcamps: Coding bootcamps with ISA models allow you to defer tuition payments until you secure a paying job, reducing upfront financial burden.
- Scholarships and Grants: Many organizations offer scholarships and grants specifically for underrepresented groups and career changers in tech.
Furthermore, consider the possibility of freelancing while you learn. As you develop basic tech skills, you can start taking on freelance projects to offset the cost of your training and gain practical experience, making your learning journey financially sustainable.
13 Essential Tips for Starting a Tech Career After 40
Here are 13 actionable tips to guide you through a successful career transition into tech at 40 and beyond.
1. Dispel the Myth: You’re Never Too Old to Code
The first and most crucial step in starting a programming career at 40 is to firmly believe in your potential and dismiss the misconception that age is a barrier. Seek out and immerse yourself in stories of individuals who have successfully made this transition. Numerous examples exist, and this guide itself features several inspiring journeys.
Luc Constantin, for instance, became a web developer at 42, overcoming personal challenges and family responsibilities. His story is a powerful testament to resilience and determination.
Syk Houdeib’s career path is equally inspiring. After exploring diverse fields from music to hospitality and education, he began learning HTML at 39. He now thrives as a front-end developer. “[I wanted a new challenge,]” he explains, “[Something that would push me well out of my comfort zone.]”
Syk emphasizes a crucial point: “[Time will pass, whether you start now or not. Never think that it’s too late. Once you start the only thing that will stop you is if you stop. If you keep going, you will make it.]” His words are a powerful reminder that consistent effort, not age, is the key determinant of success.
➡️ Find encouragement and community with coding career changers on Twitter:
2. Recognize Tech’s Inclusive Nature
Understand that the tech industry is increasingly welcoming of diverse backgrounds. You absolutely can secure a fulfilling tech job without prior tech experience. Initially, Syk Houdeib harbored doubts, feeling he lacked a “special” quality needed for tech.
“[I kept on looking for something in the writer’s background that made them ‘special,’]” he recounts. “[Something that made them suited for this job. Something that I didn’t have.]”
However, he realized that the requirements for success in tech are universally attainable. “[There aren’t any ‘special’ requirements to becoming a developer,]” he explains. “[I’m not going to tell you it’s easy, but all the requirements are things that are in everyone’s reach. You have to be willing to work hard, learn a lot, and be consistent. You need to persist when things get tough. Everyone can do these things with a bit of practice.]”
Matt Edwards, who became a software developer in his 50s, echoed this sentiment. “[I had a real hang up about my age,]” he admitted. “[Who would look seriously at employing a 54-year-old junior? Discussion with Kirsty Devlin (Manchester Codes CEO) and other MC students persuaded me that the tech world is very inclusive: if I can do the work and muck in with others, then nobody on the course, or in the wider tech world, would care how old I am.]”
He further emphasizes, “[I can honestly say that my age has never once been an issue. I was treated no differently from anybody else. I still find it amazing that I have been able to find a legit software developer job a little more than 12 months after I made the decision that I needed a change of career.]”
➡️ Find community and support from coding career changers on Twitter:
Numerous programs and scholarships actively promote diversity and inclusion in tech, specifically targeting individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. Explore resources like tech career resources for people of color and organizations that teach coding for women and girls.
3. Acknowledge and Prepare for the Challenge
While tech is accessible, it’s crucial to acknowledge that starting a programming career at 40 is not without its challenges. Kevin Smith’s journey exemplifies this reality. Despite prior exposure to programming in his youth, his midlife career change required significant effort and persistence.
After years in the music industry, Kevin returned to programming at 47. “[I found freeCodeCamp and started there. I worked my butt off. I struggled through a lot of things, but some things started to click. YouTube videos helped me get through difficult spots,]” he shares.
His job search was particularly demanding. “[I probably sent out 500 applications, did 30 coding challenges, 20 phone interviews, and about 10 times I got to the second interview. I made it to the final stage three times,]” he recounts. Kevin emphasizes the need for realistic expectations and perseverance. “[Yes, it is more difficult for someone over 40,]” he acknowledges. “[Disabuse yourself of the idea of getting a job fast. There are people that won’t even consider you. But there are also people that will value life experience and wisdom. There are great jobs out there and one has your name on it. But it’s going to take time and work to get to it, and that’s a good thing. If this were easy, everyone would do it.]”
Matt Edwards advises, “[Whatever your chosen method, you need to be aware that it’s not all sunshine and roses: there *will* be concepts that you find difficult to grasp and times when you question your sanity and wonder whether you are doing the right thing. Rest assured that everybody goes through it (regularly!).]”
🎧 To aid your journey, explore resources on productivity and time management. Podcasts and articles offering tips for staying focused and motivated are invaluable. Consistency is key. Make learning a regular part of your routine, dedicating time daily or as frequently as possible. Consider the #100DaysOfCode challenge to maintain momentum and build a consistent coding habit.
4. Leverage Your Existing Skills and Experience
Explore the diverse roles within the tech world beyond just development and design. Fields like UX design, data analysis, cybersecurity, technical writing, DevOps, and no-code development offer varied avenues for your tech career.
Your previous career and acquired skills can be surprisingly relevant and advantageous in these tech roles. Dedicate time to identify how your past experience aligns with different tech paths.
Debby Alberts, with a rich background in design and creative fields, found UX design a natural fit for her tech transition at 58. “[I wish I had known how smooth the transition would be,]” she reflects. “[I didn’t realize how much I already knew both in the research side and the UI side. Best practices are best practices no matter what the field.]”
Her career change at 50+ led to a successful career as a UX strategist. “[Leverage your past experience in any way you can,]” she advises. “[You might be surprised at how much you already know.]” Identifying roles that bridge your existing skills with tech requirements can significantly ease your transition.
Numerous individuals have successfully transitioned into tech from non-technical backgrounds, utilizing their transferable skills to thrive in the industry.
➡️ Discover inspiration from coding career changers on Twitter:
Start coding now. Begin exploring the possibilities and leveraging your unique strengths.
5. Start with Free or Affordable Learning Resources
Before committing to expensive courses or bootcamps, explore free and low-cost online learning platforms. Debby Alberts, despite ultimately succeeding with an immersive UX design course, recommends starting with self-learning. “[I would have done some online learning before I took the GA course,]” she advises.
Matt Edwards, transitioning from a tax career to software development at 50+, began his journey with free resources. Inspired by a self-taught developer’s approach, he started with Harvard University’s free online CS50 course. “[He signed up and absolutely loved it.]” he recounts. This positive initial experience motivated him to pursue further paid training.
Explore over 100 places to learn to code for free. Starting with free resources allows you to test the waters, confirm your interest in programming, and build a foundational understanding before making significant financial commitments.
6. Experiment with Different Paths and Technologies
Recognize that there isn’t a single “right” way to start a programming career at 40. Different learning methods and technologies resonate with different individuals. Syk Houdeib’s experience highlights this diversity.
“[Three of us started around the same time learning to code for a career change:]” he explains. “[my partner, myself, and a good friend. All three of us are now working in the field, and there is very little in common between our approaches. Each one followed the material and methods that worked for them.]”
When starting, experiment with free coding tutorials across different programming languages and platforms to discover what resonates with you. Explore different programming languages. The aim is to explore sufficiently to find a path that aligns with your interests and learning style, not to become overwhelmed by indecision. Once you’ve identified a direction, delve deeper with paid courses, bootcamps, and community groups.
For guidance in choosing a path, resources like “Find Your Fit” can provide step-by-step assistance in navigating the tech landscape, identifying suitable roles, and leveraging your existing experience.
➡️ Seek advice and diverse learning experiences from coding career changers on Twitter:
Explore lists of recommended learning platforms and in-depth reviews to find resources that match your learning preferences.
7. Set a Deadline to Maintain Momentum
Setting a deadline can be a powerful motivator, especially when embarking on a career change at 40 or beyond. For Syk Houdeib, a deadline was instrumental in maintaining focus and commitment.
“[I did not want this objective to end up on a to-do list I never see again,]” he states. “[It was spring of 2017, so I promised myself that the following school course was going to be my last as a teacher. So by September 2018, a little over a year later, I had to be working in the field.]” He successfully achieved his goal within his self-imposed timeframe.
For career changes at 50+, deadlines can be particularly beneficial, encouraging efficient learning and preventing prolonged retraining periods. Consider shorter, intensive programs like coding bootcamps to accelerate your career transition.
➡️ Find motivation and deadline-setting strategies from career changers on Twitter:
8. Build Personal Projects to Showcase Skills
While tutorials are valuable learning tools, developing your own projects is crucial for demonstrating practical skills and creating a compelling portfolio. Kevin Smith emphasizes the importance of personal projects in his job search.
“[Don’t get me wrong, all those tutorials and such are great at getting you ready,]” he explains. “[But you actually need to build things—actual apps and sites. And the apps and sites you build from tutorials don’t count. Interviewers can smell those from a mile away and roll their eyes. They don’t want to see if you can copy the Mona Lisa. They want to see if you can create your own work of art, from beginning to end.]”
During interviews, Kevin found that his personal projects garnered the most attention. “[When I interviewed and they looked through my portfolio, that’s what interested them. 90% of their attention was on the stuff that I’d built of my own volition, even though that probably only represented 25% of my portfolio.]”
For project inspiration, explore resources on brainstorming project ideas and examples of web development projects. Contributing to open-source projects is another excellent way to gain practical experience and build your portfolio. Consider starting a side gig to further develop your skills and create real-world projects while earning income.
9. Cultivate a Supportive Network
Building a strong network is invaluable for career changers. Nathalie Christmann-Cooper, who transitioned into tech in her 40s, emphasizes the importance of community support.
“[Surround yourself with a good support network to help you push through the hard moments when you’re really out of your comfort zone deep in a learning curve,]” she advises. “[Tech moves so fast that we are all constantly learning, even the most seasoned developers. You’ll be in good company.]”
Networking extends beyond learning support. Kevin Smith highlights the role of connections in job opportunities. “[This can’t be stressed enough—a lot of job opportunities will come from people you know. Go to meetups and meet people. Talk about your hopes. Talk about what you’re building. Ask other people the same. Try to think of development as a social activity. Maybe they know someone with a job for which you are qualified. Maybe they can review your code or work with you on a project. And you could learn some cool things by returning the favor.]”
Online communities, like the #100DaysOfCode community on Twitter, also offer invaluable support and connection. Mentorship relationships, like Debby Alberts’ experience with her instructor, can provide guidance and open doors to opportunities.
10. Establish a Robust Online Presence
In today’s digital age, building an online presence is essential for career advancement. For career changers at 40, it’s a powerful way to quickly establish credibility and visibility.
“[Get an email, web domain name, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube channel, etc.,]” Kevin Smith recommends. “[A professional portfolio site is an important tool, it is your primary form of advertising. Whether you want to work as a freelancer or are trying to land a full-time job, this is your billboard. It needs to be a good site. If you are cursed with a very common name (like me) you may have to find a way to make your ‘brand’ unique.]”
A professional portfolio website is your primary marketing tool. Platforms like LinkedIn are also critical. “[Not all, but some employers rely very heavily on LinkedIn,]” Kevin notes. “[Some recruiters exclusively hunt there.]” Optimize your LinkedIn profile to enhance your visibility to recruiters and potential employers.
11. Let Your Personality and Life Experience Shine
While professional conduct is essential, tech companies often value authenticity and personality. For career changers at 40 and beyond, leveraging your unique life experience can be a significant advantage.
“[I think a lot of people are afraid of hiring an old fuddy-duddy,]” Kevin Smith observes. “[In interviews, try to seem young at heart and easy going. Your goal is to sound like someone they want to see for 40 hours a week. In interviews, I always tried to be animated and open. I had a few jokes on hand. I sounded competent, but also fun. I think that my life’s experience (years of working as a musician, working on cruise ships, travelling the world, an MA in Music) helped me seem more interesting and more well rounded.]”
Kevin’s approach of being engaging and personable, while showcasing competence, made a positive impression even in interviews where he wasn’t hired, demonstrating the value of personality in the tech hiring process.
12. Seek Out Companies Valuing Diversity
Actively target companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion. These companies recognize the value of diverse teams, including professionals of all ages and backgrounds.
Research companies’ diversity initiatives through their “About Us” pages or LinkedIn profiles. Utilize inclusive job boards like PowerToFly or Tech Ladies to find companies specifically seeking diverse talent.
13. Embrace Lifelong Learning
A career in tech demands continuous learning. If you’re considering a career change at 40, a passion for lifelong learning is a valuable asset.
“[If you don’t love learning, this may not be the field for you,]” Kevin Smith states. “[Language specifications change, libraries evolve, APIs get revamped. You need to keep learning.]”
Debby Alberts emphasizes the ongoing learning in UX design. “[I follow UX blogs, subscribe to UX related newsletters and try to learn something new every day. UX is a constantly changing and evolving discipline.]”
Engage in continuous professional development through industry news, meetups, conferences, and online learning platforms like Pluralsight to stay updated and enhance your skills.
Introductory Courses for Your Programming Career Change
Ready to take the first step? Explore introductory courses and resources to start your journey into IT and coding.
Starting a programming career at 40 is undoubtedly a challenging but immensely rewarding endeavor. Remember, “nothing worth having comes easy.” Whether you’re becoming a programmer at 30, learning to code at 40, or seeking new careers at 50, it’s within your reach. You are never too old to code or to transform your life. If tech ignites your passion, embrace the opportunity and embark on this exciting journey.
For further inspiration, listen to podcasts on midlife career changes into tech. Your journey to a fulfilling tech career starts now.
