What does it take to become a web developer in 2024?
I get this question quite often from aspiring developers and people interested in “coding”. So I figure I’ll answer all inquisitive souls right here, right now.
Becoming a developer has never been easy—it’s a demanding profession governed by continuous learning.
As a developer, you always need to be on your toes, ready to tackle that new framework, library, or tech stack.
Development roles have always been dynamic in terms of changes in technologies and practices. However, as we move into 2024 and beyond, being a dynamic developer plays a more critical role than ever before.
But what does it mean to be a dynamic developer and why should you aspire to be one?
What’s a dynamic developer?
So, do you want to be on the front-end? Back-end? Full-stack?
How about you don’t even think about narrowing your options down to a single niche? Because becoming a developer in 2024 means wearing multiple hats.
A modern developer puts no limit to their abilities, one that diversifies skills. That developer is dynamic.
Definition and role of dynamic developers
A dynamic developer is a software professional who continually adapts to evolving technologies, learns new programming languages, and updates their skill set.
They are not bound by specific tools, languages, or platforms and can seamlessly transition between different technology stacks.
Difference between traditional and dynamic developers
While traditional developers specialize in particular technologies, dynamic developers maintain a diverse skill set spanning multiple disciplines.
Today’s dynamic developer can take an application from conception to deployment and, most often, participate in testing.
They anticipate changes in the tech landscape and continuously update their knowledge to meet these changes.
There is no “it’s not my job” because a dynamic developer’s job is always one that expects a new challenge.
Maybe your employer or client needs a system migration. Can you do it? Most importantly, are you ready and willing to learn how to do it?
Why do you need to be a dynamic developer?
As an aspiring developer, do you have the chops to become a multi-skilled dynamic developer? Because that’s what it’ll take to become a developer in 2024.
Technological evolution and developers
With technology advancing at a rapid pace, dynamic developers are in demand.
Keeping up with emerging technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and blockchain isn’t a choice; it’s a necessity.
If your interests solely lie in front-end development, don’t neglect learning how to integrate AI into your projects just because that’s back-end work.
Increased demand for dynamic developers
In our current climate, technology will continue to evolve, and so will the demand for dynamic developers.
Companies look for developers who can adapt to new technologies and incorporate them into existing frameworks to provide innovative solutions.
I, also, witness companies looking for developers who are capable of taking outdated systems to new heights. These dynamic developers can learn the existing methods and migrate them to new, more efficient ones.
When a company considers a developer candidate who can adapt and contribute across the spectrum of needs, they’re more likely to hire that individual.
Future-proof your developer skills
Being a dynamic developer means you’re always ahead of the curve. You’re prepared for the future of development, making you a valuable asset in any tech team.
You’re open to learning what’s new, to putting in the work and hours without divesting yourself of the ability to improve.
You don’t shy away from new tech like AI because you’re married to a niche. Instead, you’re ready to adapt that new tech to existing processes leading to efficiency improvements.
As a dynamic developer, you can do more than you can’t.
Essential skills to be a dynamic developer
What does it take to become a dynamic developer?
Technical skills
It’s impossible to master every emerging technology. However understanding the most popular programming languages, frameworks, and database management systems is vital.
Sometimes you can pick up new systems through on-the-job training, a sort of knowledge born out of necessity from adaptation. Other times, you’ll need to devote your free time to learning.
Needless to say, you can’t escape the fad when it comes to tech.
Take AI and machine learning that’s becoming increasingly important. Aside from integrating AI into applications, there are many ways a developer can work with AI to make programming efficient.
However, there’s also a reluctance born out of these AI assistants to “hand off” work. When I use ChatGPT to help set up a Flask application with two routes, for instance, I can’t help but wonder if I’m losing my skill of research.
Before AI, such a query for help would mean countless Google searches with answers spread across sites that often require piecing together into a single solution.
With AI, I get an imperfect answer that I can tweak and refine to make it functional. I gain time by learning how to work properly with my AI assistant. But I also grow insecure, little by little, about the prospect of being capable of working just as well without AI.
Related: How To Build A Wicked Cool App With React + Flask
Soft Skills
Soft skills also play an integral part in being a dynamic developer. Problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and a continuous learning attitude are key to navigating the ever-evolving tech world.
These don’t sound novel since they’ve always been important. However, the rise of AI has led to new ways of problem-solving and learning.
Employers and clients don’t want you to only solve their problems—they want you to do so efficiently.
Learning is also a changed process. Programming knowledge isn’t enough. As a dynamic developer, you have devoted time to understanding more than just the basics of AI.
But that’s not enough! You need to communicate your learnings, the risks involved, etc. with your team and other stakeholders.
If you propose a solution that involves a new tech vertical, stand ready to address the doubts, fears, and overexcitement with deftness.
If the designer hands off a faulty design mockup, voice your concerns. Since you’re a dynamic developer, you know something about design so make your point with confidence. With the skill to properly communicate, you’re not overstepping.
Steps to become a dynamic developer
1) Education and training
You must invest time in learning new programming languages and understanding emerging technologies. Online courses, boot camps, and certifications can help you stay updated.
Some of my favorites are Udemy, freeCodeCamp, and media outlets like Medium where you can keep up with new and emerging tech.
Tip: Don’t limit yourself when it comes to learning resources since there are many free and low-cost options online. If one doesn’t suit your learning style, jump onto another. Finding a learning way that works for you is a skill in itself!
2) Real-world practice and portfolios
Applying what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios is essential. Work on personal projects, contribute to open-source projects, or intern at tech companies to gain experience.
Building is the absolute best way of learning in the programming world. Think of how lucky we are that we’re capable of applying a new concept right here, right now.
When working on projects that are part of courses, challenge yourself by going a step further than the listed requirements.
For example, on THT’s most recent project, I worked on my solution for the freeCodeCamp Pokémon search project. I went a step further by implementing a search options list as the user types. That’s my take on elevating but also on showcasing skills.
3) Networking and community involvement
Being involved in the tech community allows you to learn about upcoming trends, technologies, and practices. Networking can also lead to mentorship and job opportunities.
You don’t need to live in a hub to participate in networking because plenty of opportunities are available online.
Many learning platforms provide forums to get in touch with fellow peers, to help and brainstorm or just say “hi”.
LinkedIn has stepped up its game by providing a way for creators to show their creations through portfolio projects, posts, and featured works.
Freelancing platforms provide the ability to get involved in communities that extend beyond immediate geographic locations. You can make a change regardless of where you are in the world.
Dynamic developers and the future of the tech industry
Dynamic developers will shape the future of the tech industry. Their ability to adapt quickly to new trends will drive innovation and fuel the sector’s growth.
Their work with AI and machine learning will make all the money and years spent on developing artificial intelligence worth it.
Their vision will reshape technological boundaries and, if a new technology emerges out of all these, all the better.
Wrapping up
In 2024, being a dynamic developer isn’t just about keeping pace with the latest technologies. It’s about understanding the big picture, continuously learning, diversifying your skills, and adapting to change.
In the rapidly evolving realm of technology, being dynamic isn’t just a desirable skill; it’s a necessity.