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A Career in Computer Programming
This is a (mostly) non-technical account of the joys of computer programming, diverse working environments, and my education in the social skills needed to thrive in those different environments. My career spanned 44 years. During that time I plied my trade in a small startup, several small business, a general partnership, a sole proprietor, and finally as an employee in a international fortune 500 company. I describe the different cultures I encountered while working in these businesses.
116 pages, Paperback
Published May 18, 2021
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June 16, 2021
A Career in Computer Programming is an enjoyable read for anyone interested in the history of computers and especially persons with professional experience in the field of computer science/programming. While described as (mostly) being written from a non-technical perspective (and this is true, the story is readable without a deep knowledge of computers) there are still enough details within to keep any computer nerd reading along happily.
Alongside discussions of low-level bit manipulation and personal stories, the book contains thoughts on human behavior, comparisons of working within small and large organizations, amusing insights into the financial/investment sector, thoughts on managing complex projects, references to classic computer science works, critiques of management styles, explorations of programming language philosophies and program architectures, information on diverse side-projects, and even historical allusions (the writings of Machiavelli) to colorfully illustrate the intricate hierarchical workings of large organizations.
The author is knowledgeable and competent within his field but is not afraid to be honest and candid in admitting when mistakes were made (either his own or the mistakes of those around him) when dealing with computers or other people and does not shy away from self-criticism -- often in the form of wondering about the timing of decisions and thinking about the road less traveled (but not in a regretful way).
At its core, this is a thoughtful biographical meditation on one man's life and career -- his thoughts, feelings, and experiences -- learning, working, and growing within and alongside the revolutionary rise of computers.
Alongside discussions of low-level bit manipulation and personal stories, the book contains thoughts on human behavior, comparisons of working within small and large organizations, amusing insights into the financial/investment sector, thoughts on managing complex projects, references to classic computer science works, critiques of management styles, explorations of programming language philosophies and program architectures, information on diverse side-projects, and even historical allusions (the writings of Machiavelli) to colorfully illustrate the intricate hierarchical workings of large organizations.
The author is knowledgeable and competent within his field but is not afraid to be honest and candid in admitting when mistakes were made (either his own or the mistakes of those around him) when dealing with computers or other people and does not shy away from self-criticism -- often in the form of wondering about the timing of decisions and thinking about the road less traveled (but not in a regretful way).
At its core, this is a thoughtful biographical meditation on one man's life and career -- his thoughts, feelings, and experiences -- learning, working, and growing within and alongside the revolutionary rise of computers.
Displaying 1 of 1 review