What's Wrong with Me?

📰 Hacker News · tech_joe

A 60-year-old engineer with extensive self-learning experience and a strong background in programming languages and computer science theory is struggling to find a job and seeking advice on what to do next.

intermediate Published 6 Aug 2023
Action Steps
  1. Update your online presence by creating a professional LinkedIn profile and personal website to showcase your skills and experience.
  2. Network with other professionals in your industry by attending conferences, meetups, and joining online communities related to your field.
  3. Consider taking online courses or certifications to enhance your skills in areas such as machine learning, cloud computing, or cybersecurity.
  4. Build a personal project or contribute to open-source projects to demonstrate your capabilities and showcase your work.
  5. Reach out to former colleagues, friends, and family to let them know you're looking for new opportunities and ask for their help in making connections.
Who Needs to Know This

This story is relevant to engineers, programmers, and entrepreneurs who may be facing similar challenges in their careers, particularly those who are looking to transition into new roles or industries.

Key Insight

💡 Having a strong foundation in programming languages and computer science theory is not enough; it's essential to have a professional online presence, network, and continuously update your skills to remain competitive in the job market.

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60-year-old engineer with 20+ years of experience struggling to find a job. What can you do when you have skills but no opportunities? #careeradvice #jobsearch

Key Takeaways

A 60-year-old engineer with extensive self-learning experience and a strong background in programming languages and computer science theory is struggling to find a job and seeking advice on what to do next.

Full Article

Well, here I am. I am 60. I had to drop out of engineering school in my 20's because my father got sick and I had to support the family. I excel at self-learning, so that wasn't a problem. Well, at least I thought so for 20+ years. I worked as an engineers in a couple of industries for about 20 years. Did well. I launched my own business, designing and manufacturing electronic products (hardware and software-based) for that industry. Ran that for about ten years. The last economic implosion took us out (2010-ish). Finding a job has been impossible. I have survived through consulting here and there, nothing crazy. Let's put it this way, I am far better value than the shit consulting gigs I have landed. What can I do? Assembler (ARM on-down to 6502). C, C++. Forth. LISP. Objective-C. Python. Django. PHP. MySQL. HTML. CSS. JavaScript. jQuery. JSON. OO, procedural, functional. Good amount of CS theory. I am also half way towards a Bs in Computer Science right now (not really
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