The freeCodeCamp Podcast #140 Surviving 40 years in the software industry with Jack Herrington the Blue Collar Coder
Sep 6, 2024
Jack Herrington, a seasoned software engineer with over 40 years in the industry and creator of the Blue Collar Coder YouTube channel, shares his inspiring journey. He discusses overcoming dyslexia, early career choices, and his transition from software to content creation. Jack reflects on the impact of iconic films and the nostalgia of music, while humorously exploring the quirks of bad movies. He also addresses the evolution of software engineering, the role of AI, and the importance of engaging with new technologies, blending personal anecdotes with industry insights.
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Dyslexia Didn't Stop Jack
- Jack Herrington struggled with dyslexia and poor grades but got into programming through game development on the TRS-80 Model 1.
- Building and debugging games like Space Invaders gave him motivation and a sense of achievement early on.
Learn By Building Projects
- Learn by building practical projects rather than rote memorization or only reading theory.
- Hands-on experience helps develop understanding and retention, especially for those with learning differences.
Use Short Paragraphs
- Write short paragraphs and sentences to make text easier to read and understand.
- This benefits everyone but especially people with dyslexia or attention difficulties.