{"id":14712,"date":"2022-05-04T03:50:10","date_gmt":"2022-05-04T10:50:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/?p=14712"},"modified":"2023-08-25T08:40:37","modified_gmt":"2023-08-25T15:40:37","slug":"skills-needed","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/skills-needed\/","title":{"rendered":"What Skills Do You Need to Become a Software Engineer?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Software engineers need to do more than just code. To be a successful software engineer, you need to have the right combination of hard and soft skills, in addition to having the more specialized skills required for your software engineering subset. In this article, we\u2019ll cover the basics of software engineering, the skills a successful software engineer needs to have, the different kinds of software engineering jobs, and how to grow your skills.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Does a Software Engineer Do?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/software-engineer-job-description\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">software engineer<\/a> uses their knowledge of systems architecture, programming languages, and user requirements to build software programs and applications. This is a collaborative role that involves writing code, reviewing code, and working with product developers and project managers to understand what features are needed to complete a project. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/software-engineer-career-path\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Check out this blog post to learn more about the many career paths to becoming a software engineer<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.blog-cta-salsey-05 {\toverflow: hidden;\t}\t.blog-cta-salsey-05-img {\tmax-width: 160px !important;\t}\t@media (min-width: 768px) {\t.blog-cta-salsey-05-content {\tmax-width: calc(100% - 281px);\t}\t.blog-cta-salsey-05-img {\tposition: absolute;\tmax-width: 100% !important;\tright: -10px;\tbottom: -10px;\t}\t}<\/style><div class=\"blog-cta-salsey-05 bg-blue-50 p-3 my-5 position-relative\"><div class=\"d-block d-md-flex\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"212\" height=\"232\" src=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/sec-student.png\" alt=\"Software Engineering student\" class=\"blog-cta-salsey-05-img mb-3 mb-md-0\" \/><div class=\"blog-cta-salsey-05-content\"><div class=\"d-flex align-items-center mb-2\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"pe-2\" width=\"86\" height=\"71\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/job-guarantee-heading-badge.png\" alt=\"Job Guarantee\" style=\"mix-blend-mode: multiply\"><h4 class=\"fw-bold mb-0\">Become a Software Engineer. Land a Job or Your Money Back.<\/h4><\/div><p>Code in the industry's most widely used programming languages. Test your knowledge through job-ready projects. Work 1:1 with an industry mentor. Land a job \u2014 or your money back.<\/p><p class=\"mb-sm-0\"><a class=\"btn btn-primary btn-lg\" href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/courses\/software-engineering-career-track\/#job-guarantee\">Start coding<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Software Engineering Skills Are Needed To Succeed?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Like any profession, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/how-to-become-software-engineer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">becoming a<strong> <\/strong>software engineer<\/a> requires a mix of hard and soft skills. We\u2019ve broken things down so that you know how to succeed.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Software Engineer Hard Skills<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-rounded\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"496\" src=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/software-engineer-hard-skills.png\" alt=\"Software Engineer Hard Skills\" class=\"wp-image-17785\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/software-engineer-hard-skills.png 800w, https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/software-engineer-hard-skills-380x236.png 380w, https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/software-engineer-hard-skills-380x236.png 420w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Hard skills are the technical abilities learned through education or professional development. These are skills that can be objectively measured for proficiency and competency. Software engineers need to be familiar with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Programming Languages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Data Structures and Algorithms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Testing and Debugging<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Containers<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s take a closer look at what these skills entail.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"bg-leaf-50 p-4 my-3\"><h4 class=\"fw-bold text-center\">Get To Know Other\tSoftware Engineering Students<\/h4><div class=\"row row-cols-1 row-cols-lg-3\"><div class=\"col\"><div class=\"card success-story-card h-100 d-flex justify-content-between mb-0\"><div class=\"flex-grow-1 text-center\"><a class=\"d-inline-block rounded-circle\" href=\"\/success\/alexander-aboutanos\" style=\"width:125px;height:125px;overflow:hidden\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/springboard-images\/image\/upload\/v1696268083\/Student%20Success\/Alexander_Aboutanos.jpg\" alt=\"Alexander Aboutanos\" style=\"object-fit:contain;max-width:170px;height:125px\" \/><\/a><p class=\"fw-bold mb-0\">Alexander Aboutanos<\/p><p class=\"text-muted lh-1\">Software Development Consultant at Sogeti<\/p><\/div><div class=\"w-100 d-block d-md-none mt-3\"><\/div><p class=\"mb-0 mx-auto text-center\"><a class=\"btn btn-primary mx-auto\" href=\"\/success\/alexander-aboutanos\">Read Story<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"col d-none d-md-block\"><div class=\"card success-story-card h-100 d-flex justify-content-between mb-0\"><div class=\"flex-grow-1 text-center\"><a class=\"d-inline-block rounded-circle\" href=\"\/success\/nadia-luna\" style=\"width:125px;height:125px;overflow:hidden\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/springboard-images\/image\/upload\/v1704206638\/Student%20Success\/Nadia_Luna.jpg\" alt=\"Nadia Luna\" style=\"object-fit:contain;max-width:170px;height:125px\" \/><\/a><p class=\"fw-bold mb-0\">Nadia Luna<\/p><p class=\"text-muted lh-1\">Student at Springboard Software Engineering Bootcamp<\/p><\/div><p class=\"mb-0 mx-auto text-center\"><a class=\"btn btn-primary mx-auto\" href=\"\/success\/nadia-luna\">Read Story<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"col d-none d-md-block\"><div class=\"card success-story-card h-100 d-flex justify-content-between mb-0\"><div class=\"flex-grow-1 text-center\"><a class=\"d-inline-block rounded-circle\" href=\"\/success\/rafael-alvarado\" style=\"width:125px;height:125px;overflow:hidden\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/springboard-images\/image\/upload\/v1698257780\/Rafael_Alavardo.jpg\" alt=\"Rafael Alvarado\" style=\"object-fit:contain;max-width:170px;height:125px\" \/><\/a><p class=\"fw-bold mb-0\">Rafael Alvarado<\/p><p class=\"text-muted lh-1\">IT Support Engineer at Amazon<\/p><\/div><p class=\"mb-0 mx-auto text-center\"><a class=\"btn btn-primary mx-auto\" href=\"\/success\/rafael-alvarado\">Read Story<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Programming Language Skills<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/programming-skills\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Programming language skills<\/a> are the bedrock of software engineering. Through <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/top-programming-languages\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">programming languages<\/a>, you\u2019re able to create instructions for a computer to execute. Software engineers don\u2019t need to know every language out there, but they should be an expert in at least one. The four most commonly used software engineering languages are Javascript, HTML\/CSS, Python, and SQL.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JavaScript<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/data-science\/history-of-javascript\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">JavaScript<\/a> is a core scripting language used in website development. It powers a website\u2019s behaviors and functionality, allowing a site\u2019s visitors to interact with its content. Because JavaScript is primarily a client-side language, it runs within the user\u2019s computer browser. However, the introduction of Node.js allows JavaScript to also execute code on servers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HTML\/CSS<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Technically, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/technology\/HTML\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HTML\/CSS<\/a> isn\u2019t a programming language. It\u2019s a markup language used for presenting UI to web users. A mark-up language is readable by humans and uses tags to differentiate elements of a document. Once these tags are included in a document, the computer interprets them, and displays the content according to the tags\u2019 instructions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Python<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/data-science\/python-for-beginners\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Python<\/a> is a general-purpose programming language that\u2019s popular with data scientists and is commonly used as a back-end server language. It\u2019s known for being simple and readable and includes tools that work with big data processing and large-scale code. Something notable about Python: It has upwards of 135,000 libraries to simplify operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SQL<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/data-analytics\/what-is-sql\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SQL<\/a> is the most popular language for extracting and organizing data stored in databases, and is used to retrieve information. This process is key for data analysis. Even if the analysis is being performed in Python, SQL is what\u2019s needed to extract data from a company\u2019s database.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Data Structure and Algorithm Skills<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-rounded\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"496\" src=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/data-structure-and-algorithm-skills.png\" alt=\"Data Structure and Algorithm Skills\" class=\"wp-image-17796\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/data-structure-and-algorithm-skills.png 800w, https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/data-structure-and-algorithm-skills-380x236.png 380w, https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/data-structure-and-algorithm-skills-380x236.png 420w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Proficiency in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/data-structures-and-algorithms\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">data structures and algorithms<\/a> is a high priority for a software engineer. It\u2019s what makes for efficiently optimized code. To round out this skill, you need to have a good understanding of math, computer architecture, and dynamic programming.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Testing and Debugging Skills<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Testing and debugging skills are needed to ensure that code is running properly. Testing code identifies errors. Debugging fixes them. Testing can be automated, but debugging cannot.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Container Skills<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Containers bundle the software that engineers develop into virtual packages which can interact with a range of different operating systems. Proficiency in either Docker or Kubernetes is an increasingly sought-after skill in the software engineering world.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Want to improve upon these skills? A great way to practice your software engineer hard skills is by solving <a href=\"https:\/\/www.codewars.com\/kata\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">creative coding challenges<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Top Software Engineer Soft Skills<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While technical skills are essential, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/5-soft-skills-every-software-engineer-needs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">software engineers need to also have the necessary soft skills<\/a>. Here are the top soft skills software engineers need:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Collaboration and communication<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Multitasking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Continuous learning<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Attention to detail<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Problem-solving<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Agile project management<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Collaboration and Communication&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Software engineers need to collaborate and communicate with their team to complete projects. Being on a team isn\u2019t always easy, but listening to differing opinions offers new perspectives, and will ultimately help the team solve problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Multitasking<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>As a software engineer, you need to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines. This is why multitasking is a non-negotiable soft skill for software engineers. Successful software engineers understand that prioritization and time management are key.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Continuous Learning<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Software engineers have to be committed to continuous learning. Whether it\u2019s a new language or software, great engineers are prepared to be a student forever. Continuous learning isn\u2019t all lectures and studying. Often it happens by talking with others in your field and examining their work.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Attention to Detail<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/what-is-software-engineering\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Software engineering<\/a> requires precise and scrupulous work. This is true in everything from testing and debugging, to coding and documentation. Attention to detail will minimize mistakes too. Remember, computers can only understand you if you precisely tell them what to do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Problem Solving<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Problem-solving skills are relevant in every step of software engineering. There will always be problems, bugs, deadlines, miscommunications, and broken code. Being able to approach problems and create solutions to solve them is an indispensable skill.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Agile Project Management<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>While usually managed by either a product or project manager, software engineers must also learn the operational frameworks of a sprint plan. Usually, a software engineer\u2019s work is assigned to them via a sprint plan with deadlines. Understanding how to work within a project management system such as Agile is a key skill for a software engineer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Think you have what it takes to be a software engineer? Check out Springboard\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/courses\/software-engineering-career-track-prep\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Software Engineering Bootcamp<\/a> to see if you qualify.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Types of Software Engineers: Different Coding Skills for Different Roles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-rounded\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"496\" src=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/types-of-software-engineers-different-coding-skills-for-different-roles.png\" alt=\"Types of Software Engineers: Different Coding Skills for Different Roles\" class=\"wp-image-17810\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/types-of-software-engineers-different-coding-skills-for-different-roles.png 800w, https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/types-of-software-engineers-different-coding-skills-for-different-roles-380x236.png 380w, https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/types-of-software-engineers-different-coding-skills-for-different-roles-380x236.png 420w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Different kinds of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/job-titles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">software engineering jobs<\/a> require different skills. Seven common career paths for software engineers include: front-end engineer, back-end engineer, full-stack engineer, DevOps engineer, QA Engineer, security engineer, and data engineer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Front-End Engineering Skills<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Front-end engineers build websites and applications that are user-friendly and engaging. To do this, they need to have:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Technical skills, such as a knowledge of programming languages (Python, Java, C++, R) and front-end development tools (jQuery, Sublime Text, GitHub)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Problem-solving and analytical skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Communication and collaboration skills&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Back-End Engineering Skills&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Back-end engineers build the structure for software. They spend their time writing server scripts, business logic, and API\u2019s. To be a back-end software engineer, you need to have:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fluency in programming languages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Server-side experience with SASS and Less<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An understanding of server compliance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Knowledge of database systems and operating systems<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Full-Stack Engineering Skills<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-rounded\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"496\" src=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/full-stack-engineering-skills.png\" alt=\"Full-Stack Engineering Skills\" class=\"wp-image-17811\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/full-stack-engineering-skills.png 800w, https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/full-stack-engineering-skills-380x236.png 380w, https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/full-stack-engineering-skills-380x236.png 420w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A full-stack engineer has both front-end and back-end skills. To do this, they need to have the following skills:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Strong interpersonal skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Knowledge of the complete software development process<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project management skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Knowledge of the fundamentals of design<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Related Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/full-stack-developer-resume\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Full Stack Developer Resume: 8 Examples to Get You Hired<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DevOps Engineering Skills<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>DevOps engineers typically don\u2019t work directly with code, but they do need to have a general knowledge of languages and automation scripts. Hiring managers also want DevOps engineers to have:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Strong interpersonal skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Time management<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Problem-solving skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Knowledge of relevant tools<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>QA Engineering Skills<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the engineers responsible for the testing of software, QA engineers need to have the following skills:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Communication skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Problem-solving skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Curiosity to delve into the folds of software to evaluate different features<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Analytical skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Basic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/coding-skills\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">coding skills<\/a> for scripting automated tests<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Security Engineering Skills<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-rounded\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"496\" src=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/security-engineering-skills.png\" alt=\"Security Engineering Skills\" class=\"wp-image-17812\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/security-engineering-skills.png 800w, https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/security-engineering-skills-380x236.png 380w, https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/security-engineering-skills-380x236.png 420w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Security engineers build and maintain security systems for companies. In this role, the engineer runs security tests, responds to security incidents, and researches new attack vectors. Here are the skills they need to have:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Experience with cyber attack detection and response<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Experience with digital forensics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Building and maintaining firewalls<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Knowledge of programming languages such as C++, Ruby, Python, and Java<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Knowledge of hacking techniques<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Data Engineering Skills<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The title of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/data-science\/what-is-a-data-engineer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">data engineer<\/a> encompasses a large swath of sub-specializations, including data analytics, AI, and machine learning. A data engineer&#8217;s main role is to analyze large amounts of data. To do this, they need to be familiar with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Database systems like SQL and NoSQL<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Data warehousing solutions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ETL tools<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Machine learning<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Data APIs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Python, Java, and Scala programming languages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Distributed systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Algorithms and data structures<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How To Grow Your Software Engineering Skill Set<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-rounded\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"496\" src=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/how-to-grow-your-software-engineering-skill-set.png\" alt=\"How To Grow Your Software Engineering Skill Set\" class=\"wp-image-17813\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/how-to-grow-your-software-engineering-skill-set.png 800w, https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/how-to-grow-your-software-engineering-skill-set-380x236.png 380w, https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/how-to-grow-your-software-engineering-skill-set-380x236.png 420w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s no right or wrong way to grow your software engineering skills. However, some of the most effective learning happens in bootcamps, online courses, and self-teaching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bootcamps<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Coding bootcamps are intensive learning opportunities that teach you the skills you need to be a successful software engineer. Typically, they\u2019re offered in full-time or part-time cohorts to accommodate different time commitments. Bootcamps focus on the most important aspects of programming, while teaching you the on-the-job skills you\u2019ll need. This is a great option for those looking for a structured approach to learning. Springboard\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/courses\/software-engineering-career-track\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/courses\/software-engineering-career-track\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Software Engineering Career Track<\/a> bootcamp is designed to teach you all the skills necessary to land a career as a software engineer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Online Courses<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Online courses are especially useful if you\u2019re looking to improve your skills in a specific area. Focused courses are less time-consuming than bootcamps because they tend to focus on a particular subject. This is a great option if you&#8217;re looking for a crash course, or if you want to try out a different area of programming. Springboard offers a great <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/courses\/software-engineering-career-track-prep\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">prep course<\/a> for software engineering. It covers the fundamentals of web development like using HTML and CSS to add content, style web pages, and manipulate them with JavaScript.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Self-Taught&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s a growing number of software engineers who are self-taught. It\u2019s a daunting prospect, but opting to teach yourself is possible with discipline, persistence, and practice. Take advantage of online resources and forums. If you\u2019re looking to practice what you\u2019ve learned, check out training on <a href=\"http:\/\/www.codewars.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Codewars<\/a>, where you can solve and create coding challenges while tapping into the collective knowledge of the Codewars community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ready To Switch Careers to Software Engineering?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/software-engineering-good-career\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/software-engineering\/software-engineering-good-career\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">career in software engineering<\/a> requires a range of hard and soft skills. Springboard offers a comprehensive software engineering bootcamp to prepare you for your future. You\u2019ll work with a one-on-one mentor to learn key aspects of front-end web development, back-end web development, databases, and data structures and algorithms. Modules include learning resources, practice exercises, projects, and career-related coursework. To learn more about what to expect from your experience with Springboard, check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/success\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Student Stories<\/a> page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"rm has-background\" style=\"background-color:#efeff6\"><strong>Since you&#8217;re here&#8230;<\/strong><br>No one wakes up knowing how to code \u2013 they learn how to code. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/success\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tens of thousands of students<\/a> have successfully learned with our courses, like our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/courses\/software-engineering-career-track\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Software Engineering Bootcamp<\/a>. If you\u2019re a total newbie, our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/success\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Software Engineering Career Track Prep Course<\/a> will be a perfect fit. Let\u2019s do this!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Software engineers need to do more than just code. To be a successful software engineer, you need to have the right combination of hard and soft skills, in addition to having the more specialized skills required for your software engineering subset. In this article, we\u2019ll cover the basics of software engineering, the skills a successful [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":42,"featured_media":17777,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_eb_attr":"","_eb_data_table":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[137],"tags":[],"marketing_tags":[1464],"class_list":{"0":"post-14712","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-software-engineering"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14712"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/42"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14712"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14712\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":49382,"href":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14712\/revisions\/49382"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17777"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14712"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14712"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14712"},{"taxonomy":"marketing_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.springboard.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/marketing_tags?post=14712"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}