Is learning programming a good choice for job seekers in 2026?

The job market for entry-level positions is quite tough right now. If you're just starting with coding, it might take a while before you feel comfortable with your skills. I suggest you approach it as a personal hobby first to see if you enjoy it. If it clicks, then you can put the effort into it beyond just looking for a job.

Overall, it seems the common view is that learning programming can be worthwhile, especially if you genuinely enjoy it. If you only want it for a paycheck, you're setting yourself up for disappointment. I've been learning for fun for a few months myself, and while I'm unsure about job prospects, I've really enjoyed the process.

I think it's crucial to know that just learning C++ and data structures isn't going to be enough for entry-level jobs in this competitive market. You should consider expanding your knowledge to include other programming languages and frameworks that are in demand. Focus on building projects and possibly contributing to open source to enhance your resume.

In many regions, especially less competitive markets, having a degree in computer engineering might still land you some decent jobs without rigorous testing. Just remember that the landscape differs significantly depending on the location, with more opportunities in larger countries like the US and UK.

Learning programming is definitely beneficial because it gives you a foundational understanding of the tech world. However, whether it leads to a rewarding career is less certain. The rapid changes in tech, especially with AI advancements, mean that traditional computer science education often lags behind. If you're committed to learning, just be prepared that the job market can be unpredictable.