Ruby Jobs for a beginning programmer?

[Ze Ca]

Hi there,

I've recently got interested in programming and have been teaching
myself for the past 6 months on programming ruby and rails. I've come to
really enjoy programming and have done some side projects (nothing too
big) for myself. I don't have a CS or technical background, but I'd like
to pursue Ruby programming as a profession.

I was wondering what kind of skill set I would need to be somewhat
comfortable with to even consider applying for a ruby job? Is
contributing to open source projects the only route I can take?

 

[Robert Klemme]

I've recently got interested in programming and have been teaching
myself for the past 6 months on programming ruby and rails. I've come to
really enjoy programming and have done some side projects (nothing too
big) for myself. I don't have a CS or technical background, but I'd like
to pursue Ruby programming as a profession.

I was wondering what kind of skill set I would need to be somewhat
comfortable with to even consider applying for a ruby job? Is
contributing to open source projects the only route I can take?

This is highly dependent on the region of the world you are in. Over
here in Germany we have educations below university CS degree some of
which can be obtained in specialized schools. For others you need to
have a kind of learning contract with a company where you also work
most of the time during the education.

I'd say some level of formal training is desirable because there are
some aspects (mathematics, algorithm theory) that I think you won't
automatically learn by contributing to OS projects - although this
certainly helps.

Kind regards

robert

 

[Ze Ca]

Hm, the learning contract sounds interesting. I'm in the states, so I'll
look into those. Thanks!

 

[Robert Klemme]

Hm, the learning contract sounds interesting. I'm in the states, so I'll
look into those. Thanks!

AFAIK this exact dual system of education (mix of company and school)
does not exist in the US. But I am sure there are other ways. US
citizens are likely a much better source of information though.

All the best

robert

 

[Tim Chen]

[Note: parts of this message were removed to make it a legal post.]

I've heard that these exist, but rarely though in the states.

I know that Microsoft used to have SDET program where they go to classes in
the morning, and work in the afternoon.

You might can sell some companies that you are smart and willing to invest
in you.

Tim