Here's how you can develop the key skills software engineers need for a successful career change.

In a nutshell, be curiosity driven, learn the fundamentals, practice and widen your depth of understanding. Write every line of code from a knowledge perspective rather than from a trial and error approach.

Developer software is continuous improving procedure, not a one-stop skill. In this regard, curiosity and constant learning is the key. In addition, it's very helpful to reflect and refactor your previously developed code, before moving on to develop new features on top of it.

Writing code is obviously fundamental to the job, but learning how to operate in someone else’s environment (reading code) is just as important. Find an open source package you regularly use already and go contribute, it will help you both see how other people do it which may improve your own coding and will also be an invaluable asset in industry.

A clear vision takes time to be formed, so don't focus on achieving extraordinary levels at first. Instead, try to grab as much generalist knowledge as possible, in order to slowly but consistently form specific knowledge in a concept or group of concepts, and consequently the language that follows that category. For example: inundating yourself with Machine Learning may naturally lead you to learn Python by consistent learning and experimentation.

Adding to that, the programming language you choose is basically decided based on the problem statement you are trying to solve and if not careful, you will face a lot of difficulties in the long run

Tooling is one of the most important parts of software engineering. Having a solid understanding of command line tools and when/how to use them will pay off in the long term.

Beyond coding, proficiency with essential tools is crucial. Familiarize yourself with integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems like Git, and collaboration tools such as JIRA. These tools aid in writing and managing code and facilitate effective teamwork. Additionally, get comfortable with databases and operating systems, as they are integral to the backend of software development. Mastering these tools enhances your efficiency and effectiveness, making you a valuable asset in any software engineering team.

Definition: Acquiring proficiency in using various software development tools that aid in coding, testing, and deployment. Example: Git for version control, Docker for containerization, and Visual Studio Code for editing. Use Case: Efficiently managing code repositories, deploying applications in isolated environments, and enhancing productivity through powerful code editors.

I would strongly recommend to get training in automated security testing tools, such as static code analysis and fuzzing. There must be procedural and technical controls in place to protect the software development environment. Finally, depending on the type of product or/a service , devops must be part of the knowledge of the software developer.

A strong grasp of computer science fundamentals is non-negotiable. Understand data structures, algorithms, and complexity analysis, as they are crucial for writing efficient code and succeeding in technical interviews. Take computer science courses or study from textbooks to build a solid theoretical foundation. This knowledge will help you understand how different technologies and frameworks operate under the hood, making you a more competent and versatile software engineer.

A robust understanding of programming fundamentals is absolutely critical. Without the fundamentals, it’s impossible to translate natural language into reasonable algorithms.

Definition: Understanding the basic concepts and principles that underpin software development. Example: Data structures (like arrays, linked lists), algorithms (such as sorting, searching), and design patterns. Use Case: Optimizing code performance, solving complex problems efficiently, and designing scalable software architectures.

Strong CS fundamentals can make or break your career. If you end up implementing a hashtable but don't understand the importance of the hashing function, the perception around you will be reduced to this simple example.

In my experience, cybersecurity requirements must be established and integrated into product design in order to to fulfill the last cybersecurity demands in terms of certifications. The complete software development team should be aware about cybersecurity concerns like cybersecurity-by-design and defense in depth, for instance.

Understanding the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is essential. It includes stages like planning, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance. Learn methodologies like Agile, Scrum, or Waterfall to navigate project workflows effectively. This knowledge enables collaboration with cross-functional teams and ensures you contribute effectively throughout the software development process.

Definition: Knowledge of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), which outlines the phases of software development from planning to maintenance. Example: Phases include requirement analysis, design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance. Use Case: Ensuring systematic and efficient software development, improving quality, and managing project timelines and resources.

Hands-on experience is invaluable. Start building your own projects, like a personal website, mobile app, or small game, or contribute to existing ones. These projects expose you to real-world problems and hone your problem-solving skills. A portfolio of such work showcases your abilities to potential employers, giving you a significant advantage in the job search process.

The only way to learn in software is to build something. When building for yourself it gives you the freedom to make rookie mistakes with no real world consequences so you don’t make them when there are. While building things is fun, As primeagen on twitch says: “don’t solve a new problem with a new language” — you want to make sure the practice you get is high quality and the only way to do that is either know the language or know the problem. If you don’t know either, you aren’t thinking basic enough for your first project.

Start building your own projects, avoid building only "pre-made" projects (such as courses or tutorials), you can and should use them as examples, but be creative and innovative in your pesonal projects, the problem-solving skill that you will be getting from this is going to make you thrive in your process

Definition: Applying coding skills and tool proficiency to create real-world software projects. Example: Developing a personal website, creating a mobile app, or contributing to open-source projects. Use Case: Gaining practical experience, building a portfolio, and demonstrating the ability to solve real-world problems.

Attending local developer meetups especially in the areas that interest you are a great way to advance your career. If there are no meetups near you consider looking for one within an hour or two drive from you. What seems like a long drive now could be the difference maker for a great job. Consider also attending a variety of other local networking events even outside of software, there’s a pretty good likelihood that when you are out and about you’ll meet someone at some point that could help you down the line.

The use of groups, discord servers, linkedin connections will be a great ally here, networking will provide you numerous opportunities, always try and reach out with developers that may be in the same path that you are or desire to be, they can provide you a good perspective and even give you a good advice, networking is one, if not the most important thing here.

Definition: Engaging with the professional community and continuously acquiring new knowledge and skills. Example: Attending industry conferences, joining online forums, and participating in coding bootcamps or workshops. Use Case: Staying updated with the latest industry trends, finding job opportunities, and learning from peers and mentors.

Although to understand the impact of new trendy generative AI developments in coding and general software development is a matter of research, I think it is something that needs to be followed up because the acceleration of the changes in this field.

Clear communication with clients is essential in software engineering to ensure that both parties have a shared understanding of project goals, timelines, and requirements. It helps to prevent misunderstandings, reduces the risk of errors, and ensures that the final product meets the client's expectations. Clear communication also helps to build trust and strong relationships with clients, which can lead to repeat business and positive referrals.

Beyond pure technical skills, the skill to take the problem from an abstract discussion to working code is priceless. This requires a hundred steps in the middle, and experience is the biggest teacher. So, next time you are in a tough team with longer hours, tell yourself it is worth staying since you are getting paid education.

Aprender patrones de dise?o de software es esencial para ingenieros por varias razones. Primero, estos patrones son soluciones probadas y eficientes para problemas comunes, basadas en la experiencia de muchos desarrolladores. Facilitan la comunicación entre equipos, proporcionando un lenguaje común para describir estructuras y comportamientos del sistema. Además, mejoran la mantenibilidad del código al promover la modularidad y la cohesión, facilitando su evolución y reduciendo errores. Fomentan el pensamiento crítico y la comprensión de principios de dise?o, permitiendo abordar problemas complejos con un enfoque sistemático. Cada patrón puede personalizarse para resolver problemas específicos, asegurando soluciones robustas y adaptables.

Learn and practice good Design Patterns, this will definitely help you when working on a big project, or even escalating an existing one, be familiar with the process of refactoring and reading code, this will be your main routine in a tech workplace

Definition: Additional factors to keep in mind for a successful career transition in software engineering. Example: Soft skills (like communication and teamwork), time management, and adapting to new technologies. Use Case: Enhancing overall employability, effectively collaborating in team environments, and maintaining a balanced and sustainable career growth.