Microsoft Visual Studio Express

   A few days ago, a guy walked into our office at Famous Davis, interested in potentially becoming a part of the programming world. He wasn't sure where to begin. He has never touched a line of code, tested software or answer calls for a support line. He didn't know the potential in the field or if it's even worth a shot. I was impressed that someone with no prior experience in computers beyond normal use would be interested in such a field. Yet, he is looking for something new to try for a line of work as his current field is something that he wants to make a closed chapter in his life.

 

   After a quick talk with my Dad on what is available in the wonderful profession of software development, he was on his way. I told him I would check into a few resources to get him start in Microsoft development. I knew Microsoft had a good deal of resources and a free version of Visual Studio, but what I had not realised is exactly how much they offer beginners. Complete beginners at that. I managed to find their Beginner Developer Learning Center, which has everything needed to start coding, even with no prior coding experience. I've always been a Microsoft Fanboy, but this is absolutely amazing to me! I understand behind the scenes it means if Microsoft can get more developers, it means more money for them in the end. I'm quite alright with that. Microsoft treats their developers great and I'm very pleased to witness that they bend over backwards to help see that a man with no experience can potentially start a new career.