There are some things you could do that could virtually guarantee entry to the field of programming. It is best if you do all of these.
1) Get an IT related degree, for example a BS or MS in Computer Science; or possibly an MIS degree (Management of Information Systems)
2) Get certified in either Java (through Sun), or C# through Microsoft (MCPD certification). There are some other possible certifications as well.
3) Be willing to relocate to ANYWHERE in the country.
Don't worry about age discrimination. The source of "age discrimination" is usually rusty skills and inflated salary expectations.
If you have a mortgage where you currently live, move to where the work is and pay your mortgage remotely until you either sell it or move back with the necessary experience to find a job locally.
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There are some things you could do that could virtually guarantee entry to the field of programming. It is best if you do all of these. 1) Get an IT related degree, for example a BS or MS in Computer Science; or possibly an MIS degree (Management of Information Systems) 2) Get certified in either Java (through Sun), or C# through Microsoft (MCPD certification). There are some other possible certifications as well. 3) Be willing to relocate to ANYWHERE in the country. Don't worry about age discrimination. The source of "age discrimination" is usually rusty skills and inflated salary expectations. If you have a mortgage where you currently live, move to where the work is and pay your mortgage remotely until you either sell it or move back with the necessary experience to find a job locally.