Blockchain hiring has doubled: Here’s how software developers can keep up

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In less than 10 years, blockchain has gone from a whitepaper concept to a full-blown movement. The tech and its uses are evolving so rapidly that blockchain-related hiring has more than doubled, according to a 2017 AngelList report.

With such demand, is it worth it for software developers to get into blockchain development? How do you even get started?

Editor’s note: Answers have been edited for clarity.

Tina Lee, founder & CEO of MotherCoders

While blockchain can be built to be private or public, the code itself originates from the open source community. As such, anyone who’s contributed to an open source project on GitHub will already have a leg up.

In terms of programming languages, anyone with proficiency in object-oriented programming (e.g. Python, Javascript, Java, Ruby, C++) will be able to dive into building blockchain applications. Experience in APIs is also helpful. The only new language that’s been developed is Solidity, which is used for programming self-executing smart contracts into Ethereum-based blockchains.

Newbies should also gain an understanding of distributed computing and cryptography, but it’s not a requirement for getting started. What is required, however, is empathy for what blockchain tech aims to tackle: the Byzantine General’s Problem, which involves trust in intermediaries to resolve. Knowing the “why” behind this tech is crucial in that the what, who, and how will invariably change.

Getting started

There are plenty of free or low-cost training resources available online, including ones offering certification. Here are a few:

• BitDegree (blockchain based)
• ConsenSys Academy
• Coursera
• Edureka
• How to Token
• Udemy

Let’s discuss