How to Become a Web Developer

According to BLS, web developer positions are projected to grow at the rate of 13% from 2020-2030. But before you jump right into this promising career, you need first to consider a lot of things like its requirements, roles, and responsibilities. Doing so will help you assess your potential and current skill sets which can give you an overview of whether or not you want to become a web developer.

The Role of Web Developer

• Web developers design, build, and maintain websites, softwares, and web applications. To do this, they use programming languages like HTML, CSS, and Javascript to write code and convert their design concepts into applications. 
• They ensure that the code meets industry standards and is compatible with operating systems, browsers, and devices.
• They collaborate with their teammates to identify problems, gather information, and resolve issues.
• They analyze business needs and requirements to build applications that will serve the users well.
• They manage the automated testing process and provide feedback to management during the development process.

Two Types of Web Developers

1. Front-End Developers

They create the user interface (UI) that determines the user’s needs and behavior. They build the site’s layout and determine where to place the buttons and other useful elements in a way that is functional and easy to navigate. Examples are forms, add-to-cart buttons, scroll bars, and menus, just to name a few. They consider the functionality, appearance, efficiency, and effectiveness of the visible elements in a particular application.

2. Back-End Developers

The work behind the scene by designing and building the part that the user doesn’t see or interact with. They create code that’s running in the background to crunch numbers, solve problems, or do any other things that a particular application needs to do. It’s like creating a series of commands that will make the UI function properly.

Skills and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, web development or any related course. But all these can be replaced by training and certifications.
• Proficient in programming languages like JavaScript, Java, HTML, CSS, React, Angular, Python, C#, C++, and many more.
• Adaptable and able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Analytical, detail-oriented, and organized
• Good at written and verbal communication
• A good team player
• Strong knowledge of application server and database management system
• Able to solve complex problems through logical reasoning

Technology is constantly changing. This means that new programming languages will be created in the next few years to suit the demands of the ever-changing technological landscape. 

While you might be intimidated by the skills and requirements for this job, remember that successful people are those with a growth mindset. They don’t easily give up when they encounter difficulties, for they consider them as opportunities for them to grow and become better at what they do.

As long as you have interest and curiosity, which are the foundations you need to pursue a web development career or learn any other skills, no one can put limitations on what you can do. 

As Henry Ford once said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t – you’re right.” This states how your mindset plays a critical role in your success or failure.

And always remember that if you want to succeed in any career, you always need to be on top of your game — you have to value continuous learning. Web development is no different.  The best part is you get to contribute to the evolution of society. 

So the next time you see people enjoying and benefiting from a website application you designed and built, you can proudly say, “I made that.”