The question: How do I get back into
programming?
I was a programmer from 1997 to 2003 using mainframe languages
such as Cobol, SQL, Easytrieve and Mantis. Before I was made
redundant I attended several courses on Visual Basic, XML, HTML and
VBScript. I ended up taking a job as a management information
analyst, but I am being made redundant again. How hard would it be
to get back into a programming role if I was to teach myself new
skills such as VB.net and C#? Would I be considered to be out of IT
for too long? Also, would it help me gain a qualification such as
MCad?
The solution: Choose MCad to get skills up to
date
You have a basic grounding in IT programming, albeit a little
dated. The lack of skilled IT professionals in the UK puts you in a
fantastic position, as once you are back up to speed your skills
will be in high demand. This, coupled with your years of
experience, should make you irresistible to employers.
Although you might be able to teach yourself Visual Basic .net
and C#, gaining a qualification such as MCad (Microsoft certified
application developer) will make you more appealing to employers.
MCad certification validates job roles that include tasks such as
building, testing and supporting Windows and web applications built
on the Microsoft .net Framework, and .net-connected applications
and services. Without this qualification, you may find it difficult
to find a job.
There are a number of ways you can gain MCad certification. It
can be obtained in seven days, or take as long as two years,
depending on whether you use accelerated learning, instructor-led
training, e-learning or self study. Programming is a skill in high
demand and once you have the necessary qualifications, you should
be able to find work.
Solution by Robert Chapman, co-founder and chief executive,
The Training Camp
The panel: Plan-Net Services, Hudson, Reed Technology, Zarak
Technology, No Limits Coaching, The Training Camp
E-mail your career questions to
computer.weekly@rbi.co.uk