I began to code because I love to make things
When I think about it, I started coding in my early teens, making webpages in HTML. I loved the problem solving aspect of creating something from scratch and the control I had over how the end result looked. As a maker and Architectural designer, I still love programming for these reasons today.
Learning to Code has enabled me to make my own career path
Learning to code has enabled me to automate processes, not only for myself, but for others in our Architecture firm, giving us more time to focus on Design.
Being able to code allows me to combine my passions for technology and Architecture into a career that I love.
Being able to program means that, using tools like Unreal Engine, I have a higher level of control over how users interact with VR experiences.
Using visual programming tools, like Dynamo BIM, not only enable me to automate workflows for our firm, but are approachable enough that I can encourage other users to start hacking themselves.
I recently overcame very serious impostor syndrome
As someone who never went to school for programming, and knows just the smallest amounts of a couple programming languages, I had a hard time identifying as a woman programmer. As someone who went to school for Architecture and spends most of my time programming using visual node based programming tools, I felt I didn't have a right to compare myself to traditional programmers.
As I work more with various tools and languages, I've come to an understanding that programming isn't about what language you know, but about knowing how to break complex problems down into very small scale specific steps. My journey of becoming a design technology specialist has made me feel more comfortable calling myself a developer.
My advice for allies to support women and non-binary folks who code is....
Do what you love, find what you're passionate about and bring those things together. Technology isn't going anywhere, and if you can find a way to use programming to add value to the other things you love, then there will always be new opportunities for you to learn and grow.
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