Today, we have some exciting news: Code Platoon is adding AI to our tech training curriculum! Our students will learn how to use generative Artificial Intelligence tools (which I’ll just call AI) to supercharge their learning, coding productivity, and the apps they build. We’re taking a holistic approach and integrating AI skills in these areas into all our programs.

Our mission at Code Platoon is to equip Veterans and military spouses with tools and skills that will greatly aid their transition to careers in tech. With those skills, our graduates go on to create successful software engineering careers across various industries and disciplines. 

Deciding to integrate AI into our curriculum wasn’t as straightforward as it seems. AI is making waves, but the fundamentals of coding are unchanged. We wanted to ensure that students using AI wouldn’t hinder their growth by bypassing the very real need for understanding the fundamentals.

So, we did our homework. The instructional team reviewed studies that measured the impact of AI on software engineering education to guide our curriculum development. We evaluated AI tools from a learner’s perspective. We looked at where the industry is going. 

We also talked with current students, alumni, employer partners, and industry experts to gain their opinions about AI in the workplace. They told us that AI skills are in high demand and that the ability to use AI coding tools is becoming more common for developers across all skill levels. 

Integrating AI into Code Platoon’s curriculum is about more than just training in AI tools – it’s an opportunity to level up our students. We’re giving them the power to understand, adapt, and lead in this ever-evolving tech landscape.

The goal of our approach is to enrich our students with a solid foundation of AI concepts. In the early weeks of the program, we will talk about AI Ethics and Security so our students know how to use AI responsibly. As they progress through the Bootcamp, we will introduce new AI concepts and techniques, each related to the programming skills they are learning. Finally, students will have the chance to apply their AI knowledge in hands-on projects to show their understanding. This helps prepare them to confidently and responsibly wield AI. 

We’re rolling these updates out with Whiskey Platoon—the current Full-stack Software Engineering: Immersive cohort—but over the coming months, every single Code Platoon program will have the new AI curriculum integrated into their curriculum. And I’ll be sharing updates and letting you see this AI training in action at Code Platoon.

Nick Smith is Code Platoon’s Program Manager and is a retired Air Force Problem Solver. He volunteers full-time at the world’s best theology school and wants to make a game about the Bible. He currently lives in Florida, where he enjoys the great weather from the comfort of his home.

Echo Evening & Weekend Platoon’s 28-week program culminated in impressive final presentations, showcasing our Veteran Coding Bootcamp graduates’ practical deployed full-stack web applications. These projects demonstrate their mastery of front-end, back-end, and iteration management programming tools mastered during the Full-stack Software Engineering: Evening & Weekend program.

The first presentation in the project showcase is SamurAI Stocks, an AI-powered web app aiding stock market decisions. SamurAI users can explore, save, and track the performance of their stocks over time. They can also view 30-day predictions created by a pre-trained GPT AI model.

The SamurAI team used many frameworks, programming languages, and coding tools to create their full-stack application. JavaScript was their core scripting language, harnessed by the React library to create their dynamic front-end user interface along with Tailwind CSS. Python and Django were used on the back end to store user authentication data via secure cookies.

SamurAI Stocks was developed by a team of Veteran software engineers, including a Marine Corps Veteran and three Army Veterans. Check out their SamurAI Stocks application demo.

 

Echo Coffee Co. is a custom-API-driven coffee reviewing application. A team of four Veterans representing the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps developed Echo Coffee Co. In addition to using JavaScript with React and Python on Django, the team developed a custom API for the application using the Django REST API framework. The API adds a coffee’s description, photos, reviews, and ratings under a unique ID assigned to it.

From these features, the program’s users can see existing coffee data and add new drink entries to the app’s PostgreSQL database, save reviews and ratings for different types of coffee drinks to the app’s database, and create a customized drink profile reflecting their coffee preferences from their ratings.

Check out Echo Coffee Co.’s presentation, including a demonstration of their custom API, below.

Chapter Chat is the final demonstration in our graduation showcase. Chapter Chat features a robust database of books for users to explore, add books to a “to read” or “completed” list, and invite other users to join a book club with a responsive messaging board. Chapter Chat also tracks the pages users read and sorts them into a leaderboard visible to the app’s logged-in members. 

Chapter Chat’s book data comes from the Open Library API and is housed in a Django framework using Python. The team created a responsive user interface using JavaScript on React, as well as Excalidraw, an app to whiteboard web application UI, and Humint, an AI color palette generator that lays complementary colors into a mock-up of the web app. Chapter Chat was containerized in Docker and deployed in an Amazon EC2 instance. The team managed the deployment by implementing a simple CI/CD pipeline on GitHub Actions.  

Watch the presentation by the Army Veteran and two Navy Veterans who comprise the Chapter Chat team.

We’re proud of the incredible applications showcased during Echo Evening & Weekend Platoon’s final project demonstrations. Congratulations, graduates!

The entire project showcase and graduation ceremony can be watched on Code Platoon’s YouTube channel.

 

Code Platoon keeps a close eye on the programming workforce to ensure that our Veteran, Servicemember, and military spouse Coding Bootcamp students receive the best training for their future careers in full-stack software engineering or DevOps engineering careers. 

This article highlights the highest-paid and most in-demand programming languages for 2023. We’ve also analyzed the trends for 2022, 2021, and 2020 to provide a comprehensive overview of the shifting technical landscape. 

The Best Programming Languages for Developers in 2023

Our research shows that Python and JavaScript developers continue to excel in 2023. 

• Python emerges as #1 in job postings, closely followed by Java (#2) and JavaScript (#3). 
• Python and JavaScript programmers also earn high salaries, ranking #3 and #4 in compensation. 
• C# is the highest-paid programming language but has less demand than Python, JavaScript, and Java.

Methods for Identifying the Top Programming Languages

Code Platoon first examined the eight most popular coding languages according to Stack Overflow’s Developer Survey:

• We mapped the highest paying programming languages with compensation data from the survey and Indeed, one of the largest job listing sites. 
• We measured demand by tracking the number of job postings targeting the survey’s most popular programming languages.

Programming Languages in 2023 by Job Openings and Salary

Python claimed #1 in the Job Postings category and #3 in Average Salary. Python is an interpreted, multi-purpose coding language. It excels in the areas of data science tools, AI and machine learning, cybersecurity, and DevOps engineering.

JavaScript secured #3 in Job Postings and #4 in Average Salary. JavaScript is the backbone of web application development and remains popular with employers.

Java ranked #2 in Job Postings and #5 in Average Salary. Java remains integral to large-scale, legacy business applications and Android development.

C# climbed to #4 in Job Postings and #1 in Average Salary. C# is most known for powering the Unity gaming engine.

C++ fell to #6 in Job Postings but remained highly paid at #2 in Average Salary. C++’s quick speed and high stability make it a good tool for developing high-performance applications, but it’s a difficult programming language to master. 

C held #5 in Job Postings and #6 in Average Salary. C is an older–but still widely used–programming language. C exposes concepts hidden in scripting languages like Python and Java, offering more flexibility. Its complexity makes C challenging to adopt.

PHP took #7 in Job Postings and Average Salary. PHP continues to have a loyal user base, particularly in powering WordPress platforms.

SQL (or Structured Query Language) was #8 in Average Salary and Job Postings. SQL is a query language that extracts information from databases.

Predicting the Best Programming Languages for 2024

Forecasting the future demand for programming languages is challenging. The supply of qualified applicants and evolving industry needs affect the number of open positions. Yet we anticipate the following trends:

• Python will keep growing as companies continue to adopt AI and LLM tools like ChatGPT, data analytics tools, and infrastructure software development. Python shines in all these areas. 
• JavaScript will continue to be the backbone of the web. It’ll likely remain essential for web development.
• Java developers will stay in demand for DevOps engineering and large-scale business operations.

For more information on programming language trends and their popularity in the workforce, consult the TIOBE Index and Stack Overflow reports. These sources consider industry demand and incorporate complementary approaches to determining the highest-paying and most in-demand programming languages.

Rod Levy is the Founder and Executive Director of Code Platoon. He holds undergraduate and Master’s degrees in engineering from Cornell University and an MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, where he graduated with honors. Rod has completed Dev Bootcamp’s web developer program.

Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be both exciting and challenging. One of the crucial steps in this transition is creating a strong LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills, experience, and potential to prospective employers. Here are five valuable tips to help you make an impressive LinkedIn profile that maximizes your post-military career opportunities.

Highlight your military experience.

As a military member, your service has equipped you with a unique set of skills and experiences that are highly valuable to employers. When creating your LinkedIn profile, emphasize these qualities. Start with a concise, compelling headline showcasing your military background and key strengths. In the “About” section, briefly overview your military career, highlighting your leadership abilities, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and adaptability. Use industry-relevant keywords to increase your visibility to potential employers searching for candidates with military experience.

Translate your skills.

One of the challenges Veterans face is translating their military skills into civilian language. Employers may not understand military jargon, so you must translate your skills and accomplishments into terms they can quickly grasp. Use civilian equivalents to describe your roles, responsibilities, and achievements. Focus on transferable skills such as project management, strategic planning, communication, and technical expertise. This will help potential employers see how your military experience aligns with their needs. Use numbers, figures, and statistics to quantify expertise whenever possible.

Build a professional network.

LinkedIn is a powerful networking platform; building a robust professional network can help your job search. Connect with fellow military members, Veterans, industry professionals, and recruiters. Identify and connect with  Veteran talent recruiters that work with companies you are interested in working for. Join relevant LinkedIn groups and participate in discussions to expand your network further. Actively engage with your connections by sharing relevant industry news, insights and contributing to discussions. A strong network can provide you with valuable contacts and potential job opportunities.

Leverage recommendations and endorsements.

Recommendations and endorsements on LinkedIn serve as proof of your skills and expertise. Reach out to your colleagues, supervisors, and military subordinates and request recommendations highlighting your strengths and achievements. Similarly, ask them to endorse your skills, which adds credibility to your profile. Remember to reciprocate these gestures by offering recommendations and endorsements to others within your network. This mutual support will strengthen your professional relationships and increase your visibility.

Continuously update and engage.

Your LinkedIn profile is not a static document; it should evolve as you progress in your post-military career. Regularly update your profile to reflect new accomplishments, certifications, or skills you acquire. Engage with your network by sharing relevant content, commenting on posts, and participating in conversations. Seek and follow industry influencers, companies, and organizations aligning with your career goals. Staying active and engaged on LinkedIn shows your dedication to professional growth and keeps you on the radar of potential employers.

Creating a compelling LinkedIn profile is crucial for military members transitioning into civilian careers. LinkedIn also offers eligible military community members one year of access to LinkedIn Premium and LinkedIn Learning, so make sure you take advantage of that offer.

Following these tips can enhance your job search and open doors to exciting post-military opportunities. Remember, your military service has equipped you with invaluable qualities that employers seek, and LinkedIn is the perfect platform to showcase your potential. Embrace the transition, seize the opportunities, and embark on a fulfilling post-military career journey!

Jim Hennessey is Code Platoon’s Director of Marketing. Jim brings a strong background in nonprofit marketing and start-up enterprises to the mission of Code Platoon. Jim is a graduate of Clemson University and currently lives in Chicago. Follow Jim on LinkedIn.

Growing up in China, Delta Evening & Weekend Platoon graduate Hui Zhao never would have suspected that she would become an American military spouse or a software engineer. But a couple of chance encounters—a Soldier she’d fall in love with and a new friend encouraging her to learn to code—would change her life forever.

“I planned to get my Masters of Animal Sciences in the United States, then move back to China,” Hui said. “I would live near my family and start one of my own. Then I met my husband, and everything changed.”

After marrying, Hui began working in animal care and research, but her plans had to shift again when her husband, an active duty Army Intelligence Analyst, was deployed to Alaska. 

“When I first became a military spouse, I didn’t know we’d have to move so much,” Hui said. “My background was in animal sciences and livestock. When we were deployed to Anchorage, I had no opportunities to continue my work.”

Hui quickly grew restless staying on the base alone. She wanted to forge her own path and positively impact the world. So, she started looking for a new career. With little support for military spouses at her base and few remote jobs available to Alaskans, Hui eventually settled into a role for the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management of Alaska.

“What I did there was meaningful but temporary,” Hui said. “I wanted a career that I could maintain no matter where my husband and I would have to live.”

Hui then connected online with another Chinese-American military spouse who had attended Code Platoon’s Full-stack Software Engineering: Immersive program and became a software engineer at Lockheed Martin. She told Hui about Coding Bootcamp and launching her tech career with Code Platoon.

“In the past, I would imagine what apps could make my life easier, but I never thought I could make these products myself,” Hui admitted. “I hadn’t considered programming. I thought it was a lot of math, but my friend encouraged me to try coding for myself.” 

Hui started learning Python and quickly found herself enjoying it. After completing Intro to Coding, she was accepted to Code Platoon’s Full-stack Software Engineering: Evening & Weekend program. She and three other spouses in her cohort received full-tuition military spouse scholarships.

“Having a shared experience with other military spouses in the program was awesome. Delta Evening & Weekend Platoon got along well. Whether Veterans or spouses, we were all students first.”

Hui was also surprised to receive even more resources from Code Platoon alums she added on LinkedIn: 

“It felt like a family. Everyone was looking out for each other.”

Hui’s favorite aspects of programming are project management, fixing bugs, and creating apps that make a difference in people’s lives. She also enjoyed working with teammates on their final projects.

“It’s so rewarding knowing what I build as a software engineer can have a lasting impact. It feels like the future is in my hands.”

Hui and her family recently moved to Virginia, where she is applying for her first software engineering position.

“In my first year of marriage, I didn’t realize that the American military and their spouses are a community, but they are. I’m grateful to have become part of the community of Veterans and spouses helping each other succeed.”

“Being a military spouse teaches you to be resilient, adaptable, and embrace the quick turnarounds in life,” she said. “I’ve moved to a new country, built new relationships, and done what I can to support my family while following my dreams, too.”

Kayla Elkin is the Marketing Content Specialist at Code Platoon. In this role, she uses her marketing, writing, and editing skills developed from previous positions in higher education and educational technology. Kayla has degrees in English and Sociology from Clemson University and completed the Study in India Program (SIP) at the University of Hyderabad.