Knowing how to code different programming languages is essentially one of the most important aspects of modern technology, since without it, we wouldn’t be able to do much. Code has become the foundation of all digital entities since the earliest languages powered the first computers in the 1940s. From software development for a high-tech company to perfecting mobile applications for beloved grocery stores, to creating video games, you need to understand code to make any of the above happen. As a result, coders are in high demand, filling roles in software engineering, web development, and network administration. Here are some jobs you can open to you when you learn to code.

1) Computer and Information Systems Manager

Computer and information systems management is one of the leading career paths for a coder. CISM involves making high-level technical decisions, putting a value on specific software installations and modifications, and comprehending your network’s digital infrastructure. In general, CIS managers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing all computer-based activity within an organization.

Coding skills come into play in this role because they help make higher-level technical matters easier to approach and communicate. CIS Managers are poised for success as both versatile IT professionals and tech-savvy team leaders when they already know how to code different languages because they can then apply technical knowledge to address their network’s underlying framework while spearheading efforts to make it stronger and more efficient.

So how much do computer and information systems managers make? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the role saw a median annual pay of $151,150 in 2020.

2) UX Designer

A UX Designer is in charge of creating significant and relevant experiences for users of a particular product or platform, such as an app or a website. They are a critical part of the user experience and are a big part of the reason why you love your favorite apps and their interfaces.

To become a UX designer, you must have some knowledge of programming and computer systems to aid your success in this role. Knowing the different languages helps you become versatile for different language accommodations and share your vision with the rest of the team.

So how much do UX designers make? According to the Payscale, the average UX designer makes about $77,00 a year.

3) Product Manager

Product managers have the big job of overseeing a product’s entire life cycle, from initial creation to final release. During product development, product managers are in charge of creating plans to meet production goals, monitoring and streamlining the production process, and analyzing market data to develop stronger, more informed insights regarding consumer behavior.

Product managers don’t necessarily need a hard understanding of code, however, those with coding backgrounds tend to be in favor for a number of reasons. Product managers with a coding background tend to have an easier time managing the development of digital products like mobile apps, online guides, and web elements such as themes or widgets. Furthermore, product managers can aid in technical troubleshooting and can help their team come up with a solution when they are faced with technical difficulties.

So how much do product managers make? According to Payscale, the average product manager makes about $104,195.

4) AI Engineer

Artificial intelligence, also known as AI, is a pretty big deal right now in the tech world. AI engineers have the job of creating, testing and developing computer systems to mimic human intelligence in said systems.

Coding is at the core of being an AI engineer. Besides code, you also need a strong understanding of software development, linear algebra, probability, and statistics. In other words, this is a great pathway if you are a math or numbers kind of person.

So how much do AI engineers make? According to Zip Recruiter, the average yearly salary of an AI engineer is $98,340.

5) Video Game Designer

Video game designers are the coding superstars behind the games you play in your free time. They use code on various systems and conceptualize with other developers to create playable games. Without the coders, we would have never Pong or anything else after its conception.

You must know how to code to be able to become a video game designer. Not only code but knowing how to story tell using your code. You need to have a vision of what you want the user to achieve and feel along with creating a great gaming experience.

So how much do video game designers make? According to Comparably, the average video game designer makes $111,916.