Learn to Code in Chicago: Beginner's Guide to Programming Languages

Chicago's tech scene is thriving in 2024, making it the perfect time to start learning to code in the Windy City.

With over 106,000 people employed in tech, you've got tons of opportunities to secure a coding job. From major players like Google and Grubhub to innovative startups, Chicago's ecosystem is thriving.

To land your dream job, you'll need to master in-demand languages like JavaScript, Python, and Java. But don't worry - coding bootcamps are here to help you level up your skills fast.

With an average software developer salary of $108,170 in Chi-Town, learning to code can unlock a future filled with opportunities and substantial earnings.

Chicago is where it's at if you wanna level up your coding game! The Windy City's tech scene is popping off with top companies and insane career opportunities.

According to the stats, the demand for programmers and techies in Chicago is expected to skyrocket by a mind-blowing 25% from 2022 to 2032. That's a serious jump!

With major players like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft setting up shop here, plus a thriving startup community, there's no shortage of dope gigs for coders.

And let's talk about that cash money - experienced software devs in Chi-Town are raking in an average of $127,562 per year.

Talk about a sweet payday for doing what you love!

But it's not just about the Benjamins, my friends. Living in Chicago means you'll be surrounded by a vibrant community of tech enthusiasts, networking events, and endless opportunities to grow your skills.

Plus, this city's cultural scene is off the charts - from mouthwatering food to dope music festivals, you'll never run out of ways to have fun.

So if you're thinking about breaking into tech in Chicago, now's the time to make your move.

With the right skills and a bit of hustle, you could be living the dream in one of the hottest tech hubs in the nation.

Chicago is straight up killing it when it comes to coding bootcamps! This city has become a total tech hotspot, and there are so many fire programs to help you level up your skills.

Check this out - according to Course Report, some of the top dogs for 2024 include:

• Actualize - These guys offer part-time and full-time bootcamps where you'll learn the full stack, from Ruby to JavaScript and everything in between. They've got a solid "Job Hacking" curriculum to help you nail that new gig. Key point: Strong focus on full stack development and job placement support.
• Evolve Security Academy - Cybersecurity is where it's at, and Evolve's got a 20-week program to teach you all the skills you need to land one of those high-paying cyber jobs. Key point: In-depth cybersecurity training with high job placement rates.
• Code Platoon - This non-profit is all about helping vets and military spouses transition into the tech world. Their full-stack and DevOps bootcamps are legit. Key point: Supporting military personnel with comprehensive tech training.
• Northwestern Boot Camps - You know NU means business. They've got 12-week full-time and 24-week part-time options for web dev, data science, cybersecurity, and more. Key point: Flexible programs from a reputable institution.

When you're shopping around for the right fit, keep in mind things like the curriculum, teaching style, career support, and overall rep.

This guide from Code Labs Academy breaks down the deets on some of the top players like Actualize and Code Platoon.

And don't sleep on affordable options like Nucamp - their Full Stack program is a total steal, and they've got solid job placement rates too.

At the end of the day, do your research, check out reviews, and go with the program that vibes best with your goals and learning style.

With the right bootcamp, you'll be coding like a pro and scoring that dream tech job in no time.

When it comes to learning to code in the Windy City, you gotta start with the right programming language. Python, JavaScript, and HTML/CSS are the real MVPs for beginners.

Python is a total beast - it's got your back for data science, machine learning, web dev, and more. Tech giants like Grubhub, Uptake, and Caterpillar in Illinois are all about that Python life.

In 2022, Python was ranked the third most popular programming language globally, so you know it's hot.

But don't sleep on JavaScript either! It's the language that makes websites and apps come alive with all those interactive elements we love.

With e-commerce giants like Groupon based right here in Chicago, knowing JavaScript is a major flex. According to the 2022 Stack Overflow Developer Survey, JavaScript was the most commonly used programming language worldwide.

That's some serious cred right there.

HTML and CSS are the building blocks that let you structure and style websites to look fresh AF. As companies in Illinois are going all-in on their digital game, skills in HTML/CSS are in high demand.

You can't go wrong with learning these three languages as a beginner.

Now, when it comes to learning resources in Chicago, we've got options for days.

General Assembly Chicago offers full-time and part-time courses in Python, JavaScript, and web dev. Coding Temple Chicago has coding bootcamps that'll teach you all that good stuff.

There are also study groups and workshops happening with Free Code Camp Chicago for HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Python.

And don't forget about the coding communities like the Chicago Python User Group and Chicago JavaScript Meetup - great places to network and level up your skills.

At the end of the day, choosing the right language comes down to your goals.

As Richard Lopez, Founder of Array Web Development, says, "Python is excellent for data analysis and automation, while JavaScript is ideal for creating dynamic websites and web applications." So think about what you're trying to do in the tech scene, and pick the language that'll help you get there.

The Illinois tech ecosystem is popping off, and starting with the right language will put you on the path to success.

As a beginner coder in Chicago, you gotta get those study habits on lock and really immerse yourself in the local tech scene - that's how you level up! The key is setting realistic goals and breaking down those massive projects into smaller, more manageable chunks.

That way, you'll rack up those little wins regularly, keeping that motivation fire burning bright. And don't sleep on coding consistently, even if it's just an hour a day - that grind adds up over time, trust me.

Chicago's coding community is thriving, with meetups and groups catering to newbies like us.

Organizations like ChiPy (Chicago Python User Group) and Chicago Ruby host regular meetups, workshops, and study sessions, giving you that prime opportunity to network, seek guidance, and collaborate with fellow learners on the same journey.

Check out these other local gems for beginners too:

• Girl Develop It Chicago: A non-profit dedicated to providing affordable coding education for women.
• Free Code Camp Chicago: A study group focused on web development, with regular meetups and coding sessions.
• Coding Meetup Groups: Meetup.com has a ton of groups like "Learn to Code Chicago" and "Chicago JavaScript Developers" that cater to various skill levels.

Tapping into these communities lets you soak up diverse perspectives, coding best practices, and potential mentorship opportunities from seasoned developers.

Here's what a Chicago-based coding mentor had to say about the value of local networks:

"One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of the Chicago tech community is the opportunity to share knowledge and support aspiring programmers on their coding journey." - Elizabeth Smith, Senior Developer at Acme Corp.

And let's not forget about coding bootcamps in Chicago, like Nucamp, which offer supplementary resources, career services, and alumni networks to help you level up as a programmer in Illinois.

By embracing these local resources and fostering meaningful connections, you'll be better equipped to overcome challenges and unlock your full potential as a coder in Chicago.