It is essential to understand how programming and the role of the programmer have evolved, particularly in recent years in which the technology It has gone from being a support tool to becoming the center of many productive and commercial activities.
In recent times we have witnessed how the programmer profession has changed and specialized, while facing significant challenges, such as a shortage of qualified talent and the transformation to a predominantly remote work environment.
He programming work It is, in essence, the creation, design and writing of the instructions that allow systems and applications to function in relation to a desired objective. Every application we use in our daily lives, from a simple WhatsApp message to a complex e-commerce platform, depends on lines of code written by programmers.
As time progressed, the profile of the programmer has become more specialized. Decades ago, programmers tended to be more generalists, covering multiple areas. Today, there is a great diversity of specializations: from experts in user interface development (frontend), to those who manage the backend, where data and application logic are processed. In addition, there are niches that demand specific knowledge, such as artificial intelligence (AI), data analysis, cybersecurity, and platform integration, among others that require very specialized technical skills.
Diverse training: The new challenge
One of the most obvious changes has been the diversity in training necessary to be a programmer. While in the past it was common for programmers to come from university degrees related to systems engineering or computer science, today we see a greater variety of educational routes. Bootcamps, short courses, and certifications in specific programming languages have gained popularity allowing more people to enter the job market with accelerated but focused technical preparation. For example, internal training programs such as bootcamps specifically aimed at women help foster greater inclusion in the sector.
Talent shortage: A permanent challenge
Despite the growing training offer, there is still a notable talent shortage in the technology market. According to the CESSI report for the first quarter of 2024, the technology sector employs more than 140,000 people in Argentina, of which between 40% and 50% are programmers. However, demand continues to outstrip supply, making it difficult for companies to find the right talent to fill their vacancies.
This imbalance between supply and demand has intensified in recent years. From 2015 to 2023, employment in the software development sector grew by 58%while employment in Argentina’s general private sector barely increased one 3.1% in the same period. This difference reflects not only the impact of technology on the labor market, but also the dizzying pace of digital evolution compared to other sectors.
Remote work: A new horizon of opportunities
One of the most important changes in recent years has been the possibility of remote work. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend, and today, the technology sector is one of those with the largest number of employees working virtually. For example, working with collaborators in different cities and regions of the country would previously have been a logistical challenge. Now, the geography is no longer a limitation to find talent.
This change has had a positive impact on the availability of programmers, as companies no longer need to limit themselves to hiring in large cities. This has significantly expanded the number of people who can work in the sector, generating more job opportunities in areas that historically have not had access to this type of jobs. Technology and the ability to work remotely have broken down geographic barriers, allowing programmers to work from anywhere in the world.
Of course, remote work also brings with it the challenge of finding new ways to enhance human contact, previously achieved by coffee or lunch together, which allows for the generation of cohesive teams with a view to achieving common goals.
Looking to the future: adaptation and growth
The future of work in technology will continue to transform as new tools like artificial intelligence, cloud capacity wave data science keep evolving. Programmers will continue to play a crucial role, not only as code generators, but as quality testers and assurers and architects of increasingly complex systems. However, to capitalize on these opportunities, it will be necessary to continue promoting continuous training and adapt to new market demands.
Programming will continue to be the cornerstone of technological innovation. The challenge is twofold: first, attract and train more people in this field; and second, continue to develop solutions that respond to the ever-changing needs of the business world. The important thing will be to be committed to creating a robust technological ecosystem, where human talent and new technologies work together to build a more digital, inclusive and sustainable future.
CEO of ITR Software Development.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
