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Thomas Gooch
Self-taught software engineer who transitioned from decades in manufacturing to a developer role in his early 40s, using freeCodeCamp and later working on enterprise Java apps at a semiconductor company.
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Oct 3, 2025
• 59min
#191 From manufacturing worker to first developer job at age 43 with Thomas Gooch
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Thomas Gooch, a self-taught software engineer, transitioned from years in manufacturing to his first developer role at 43. He shares the realities of 12-hour shifts and how freeCodeCamp's free curriculum helped him learn programming. Thomas discusses the challenges of switching from JavaScript to Java, the importance of networking, and running meetups to support junior developers. He also reflects on using AI in coding, emphasizing the value of foundational skills over reliance on tools. Thomas's journey is an inspiring testament to perseverance and community.
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