Changing careers to Software Engineering.... Wise?

Question

Hello everyone,

I notice this site has a wealth of software professionals and I am investigating a career change to Software Engineering:

*Particularly, I would like to know how likely one would be able to work from home or another country over the internet. Is this something that can be done and what does it usually entail? (time?,experience?, specific companies?, etc)

*Currently, I am a teacher but always had a passion for tech. I am interested in a MS - Software Engineering program designed for individuals based from another field. Is this a wise degree to obtain? Would I be just wasting my time and money obtaining this degree? (I'm suspicious about this program and the feasibility of obtaining employment without a healthy CS background)

Thanks for any assistance you can provide!

Answer 1

It's definitely possible to work from home or completely remotely in software engineering, especially if you are doing freelance work where there is little expectation of physical presence. In a normal employment situation, it's far less likely to be able to go completely remote, but still possible if you look specifically for that kind of job. Usually remote work is only suitable for more experienced professionals, as less experienced folks usually benefit from the face time of being in an office.

If you do intend to go into the field, an education in CS / Software Engineering can be a big help to get you started down the path. Additionally, many employers look for the education specifically to filter you into the "might know what he's talking about" category.

Most of your learning, however, will come from actually developing software. One of the nice things about this field is that you can do it in your free time and for yourself, with very little cost. Start programming something or join an open source project and gain experience that way, and you'll be in good shape. Also check out the various "I graduated and I don't know how to write software" questions here for more information that will help you as well.

Hope that helps!

Thanks, Joe

Answer 2

You'll find that once you have a 9 to 5 for a while and build a relationship with an employer, you can begin to build a rapport that will allow you to telecommute as needed. I have several developers working for me, and one of them works strictly out of his home hundreds of miles away. I have the opportunity also to be able to do a 'working vacation' for about 6 - 8 weeks or so so I can travel with the family and work at the same time.

I would not been able to do this starting out....the fellow that answers to me that telecommutes - he has a unique skillset in lower level communications protocols that we need. In other words, he has a niched skillset, and is not a normal programmer by a long shot.

You'll more than likely start out as a 9 to 5'er until you either build rapport with an employer, are develop a skill that is very much needed.