Why Programming Is Important?

Summary

The speaker reflects on their journey with coding, starting at a young age with a simple Macintosh and progressing through self-teaching and problem-solving. They emphasize that coding is accessible and not as intimidating as perceived, requiring determination rather than genius. The narrative highlights the transformative impact of software across various industries and the importance of learning to code in today's technology-driven world. The speaker also discusses the benefits of working in tech, including a supportive and creative work environment, and concludes by likening skilled coders to modern-day wizards, possessing a superpower to change the world.

Takeaways

• 💻 **Early Exposure to Technology**: The speaker was introduced to a computer at a young age, which sparked their interest in coding.
• 🎓 **Learning by Doing**: They learned to code by starting with simple programs and gradually adding complexity.
• 🌐 **Coding as a Universal Language**: Coding skills are applicable across various industries, from agriculture to entertainment.
• 🚀 **The Power of Creation**: Coding allows individuals to create something from an idea and bring it to life.
• 🌟 **Breaking Down Problems**: The essence of coding is not about complex algorithms but about breaking down problems.
• 📈 **Growth Mindset**: Determination is more important than genius when it comes to learning to code.
• 🏆 **The Impact of Software**: Software has revolutionized many traditional fields, making them dependent on coding.
• 🎉 **Company Culture**: The speaker's company focuses on hiring talented engineers and creating an enjoyable work environment.
• 🌱 **Empowerment Through Coding**: Learning to code is an empowering skill that can lead to both financial success and societal impact.
• 🌍 **Global Reach**: The speaker emphasizes the global impact of software, highlighting the potential to reach billions of users.
• 🧙‍♂️ **Coders as Modern Wizards**: The speaker likens coders to wizards, suggesting that coding is akin to having magical powers in today's world.

Q & A

At what age did the speaker first get access to a computer?

The speaker first got access to a computer when they were 13 years old.

What was the first computer the speaker owned?

The first computer the speaker owned was a Macintosh, which was bought by their parents in 1984 when they were 8 years old.

What was the first program the speaker wrote in college?

The first program the speaker wrote in college was a program to play tic-tac-toe.

What was the purpose behind the speaker's initial interest in coding?

The speaker's initial interest in coding was to make something fun for themselves and their sisters.

How did the speaker approach learning new coding skills?

The speaker approached learning new coding skills by looking up what they needed to know in books or on the Internet and then adding that knowledge to their program.

What does the speaker compare the process of learning to code to?

The speaker compares the process of learning to code to playing an instrument or a sport, stating that it starts out intimidating but becomes easier over time.

What is the speaker's opinion on the necessity of being a genius to code?

The speaker believes that you don't have to be a genius to code; determination and basic math skills are sufficient.

How does the speaker describe the impact of software on various industries?

The speaker describes the impact of software on various industries by stating that all fields, such as agriculture, entertainment, and manufacturing, have been transformed by software.

What was the name of the after-school group the speaker was part of during school?

The after-school group the speaker was part of during school was called The Whiz Kids.

What kind of amenities does the speaker's company provide to attract talented engineers?

The speaker's company provides amenities such as a fantastic chef, free food, laundry, snacks, and places to play video games and scooters to attract talented engineers.

What does the speaker consider the most empowering aspect of computer programming?

The speaker considers the ability to come up with an idea, see it in your hands, and then have it be in millions of people's hands as the most empowering aspect of computer programming.

How does the speaker view the programmers of tomorrow?

The speaker views the programmers of tomorrow as the wizards of the future, having what seems like magic powers compared to others.