Technologists discuss what developers should be learning now
June 24, 2016 | Kat Hungerford
What’s the most-asked question at the Kansas City Developers Conference? According to conference organizers, it’s “What should I be learning now?”
To help answer the query, Startland News curated a panel of experienced software developers, moderated by editor-in-chief Bobby Burch.
Among many nuggets of information from panelists, priority No. 1 needs to be Javascript, according to PayPal programmer Kent C. Dodds.
“I am just completely floored by how many platforms Javascript can run on,” Dodds said. “As a Javascript developer, I can write for the web, for desktop, for mobile, for IoT — all with Javascript. If Javascript isn’t your thing, it’s still an important thing to know because regardless of what you end up doing, you’ll probably write some Javascript. It’s just so ubiquitous.”
The panelists also provided suggestions on how to get started — like finding a specific problem you want to solve, and using that as the impetus to learn a new programming language. Others emphasized the importance of developing “soft skills” and life-long learning.
Originally live-streamed on Startland’s Facebook page, below is the full video. More coverage from the KCDC can be found with this video on its growth, a photo gallery and a Q&A with conference organizers.
2016 Startups to Watch
stats here
Related Posts on Startland News
1 Million Cups presenters have shot at $10K
One of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation’s most popular programs, 1 Million Cups, will soon be offering entrepreneurs more than its typical morning refreshments. Program leaders announced Wednesday that it’s launching the “One in a Million” competition, in which former presenters in the program could snag $10,000. Now in more than 70 cities worldwide, 1…
DivvyHQ raises $1.8M for marketing tech
Kansas City-based DivvyHQ is ready to hit the gas after its latest investment round that will more than double its team. The marketing tech firm recently closed on a $1.8 million Series A round to boost its staff headcount and marketing outreach. Investors in the round include Dallas-based venture capital firm DAN Fund, Dundee Venture…
Mental health startup Start Talking goes mobile, scores $150K in tax credits
Depression affects about one out of every 10 Americans, including at one time Start Talking founder Mark Nolte. While a rough time in his life, Nolte’s struggle with depression in 2010 eventually led him to launch a venture that’s more easily connecting people with the help they need. Lenexa-based Start Talking offers patients a psychotherapy…
Video: KC women in tech talk challenges, engagement
While Kansas City ranks as a top locale for ladies in technology, there’s still work to be done to create more gender diversity in the industry. This video — created in collaboration with Kansas City Public Television and videographer Brad Austin — explores some of the challenges that women face in a male-dominated field and how to engage more women…