Python is a popular open-source programming language. It is used for automating tasks, analyzing and visualizing data, and developing software and websites. Python was created by Programmer Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991. It is maintained by the nonprofit Python Software Foundation and is one of the most popular programming languages in the world. According to Stack Overflow’s annual survey of Developers, Python ranks at number three among languages, used by more than fifty percent of Developers.
What Can You Do with Python Training?
Python is an in-demand skill and learning it can equip you for many different industries. This language can be used in many different tasks that involve programming and data analysis. The Python Institute calls Python “the language of today and tomorrow.” It explains, “Python is the programming language that opens more doors than any other. With a solid knowledge of Python, you can work in a multitude of jobs and a multitude of industries. And the more you understand Python, the more you can do in the 21st Century. Even if you don’t need it for work, you will find it useful to know.” Some common fields where you can use Python include web development, machine learning, data science, and programming.
What Will I Learn in a Python Class?
Python
When you take a Python class, you’ll learn the Python language. Like every programming language, Python has its own unique syntax, which you’ll need to master. You’ll also need to learn several other basic concepts such as variable expressions, data types, conditionals, functions, and loops.
Frameworks and Libraries
There are many different frameworks and libraries for Python, and when you take a class, you’re likely to learn how to use some of them. Frameworks and libraries are prewritten collections of code and they can speed up the coding process significantly since you can use them for certain tasks rather than creating all your code from scratch.
Best Practices
Best practices are an important part of working with any coding language, including Python, and are likely to be covered in a Python class. When you use best practices, you’ll end up with high-quality, consistent, and secure code. Python's best practices include writing your code in the most simple way possible, testing it regularly, and keeping it organized.
Algorithms and Data Structures
When you learn to work with Python, you’ll learn to use several different tools for working with data, including algorithms and data structures. An algorithm is a set of instructions that can be used to process and manipulate data, and a data structure is like a container that can be used to store and organize data in a certain way.
Problem-Solving
A Python class will also help develop your problem-solving skills. Problem-solving is central to coding. In fact, Programmers often write code as a way to address specific problems. They also need problem-solving skills for testing and debugging code.
How Hard is It to Learn Python?
Many people find that Python is easier than other programming languages to learn. It has a relatively simple syntax, and is often recommended as a good first programming language. However, you shouldn’t expect it to be easy. Learning any programming language requires dedication and practice. If you already have some programming experience, or if you’re fluent in other coding languages, you’re likely to learn more quickly.
What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning Python?
A lot of people find that debugging—the process of finding and correcting errors in their code—is one of the most challenging parts of learning Python. Even a tiny error can have significant consequences and will need to be found and corrected, but finding errors can be difficult and time-consuming. Experts say that while debugging can be frustrating, it is an essential part of working with Python and they advise devoting a lot of time to practicing this skill, which can help it gradually feel easier.
Should I Learn Python in Person or Online?
When it comes to learning Python in Houston, you can choose to take an in-person class or you can enroll in an online course. Each format has advantages and disadvantages and the best option for you will depend on your scheduling preferences and learning needs. If you prefer face-to-face instruction, then you may want to go with an in-person class. Some people find this format more engaging and like that it takes place in a classroom space that is dedicated to learning and free from outside distractions. However, for in-person learning, you’ll have to commute to a classroom, which can be expensive or inconvenient, depending on where you live, and can also mean that you have a limited number of class options.
If you need more flexibility, then online learning may be a better choice. One type of online learning is a live online class, which includes real-time instruction and interaction, just like in-person learning. Unlike in-person learning though, no commute is required; instead, you attend by simply logging on from any location that you want. A downside is that you’ll have to provide your own equipment and software. Another type of online learning is an on-demand class. On-demand learning is pre-recorded and you can progress through it as quickly or slowly as you want. Most on-demand classes are significantly cheaper than live ones too. The biggest downside to on-demand learning is the lack of a live instructor.
Can I Learn Python Free Online?
If you’re new to Python, free online resources can be a great way to get an overview of what this language is all about and how you can use it. For instance, some schools offer free resources to help prospective students get a better understanding of what they want to study. Noble Desktop provides several free seminars including Intro to Python Fundamentals and Exchanging Excel for Python. If you want to get to a professional level in Python, though, free resources are unlikely to be comprehensive enough. Instead, you’ll probably want to enroll in a live class where you can learn under the direction of a professional. Another benefit of a paid class is that you can be sure the content you’re learning is accurate and up-to-date.
Industries That Use Python
Finance
The use of Python to analyze and visualize data has become increasingly common in many industries, including finance. Experts have even coined a new term—“FinTech”—to describe the use of technology in finance. Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States and has a large economy, with many financial opportunities, including in FinTech. With no personal, state, or corporate income tax, it is a competitive place to do business.
Technology
Python’s versatility has made it a popular language in the tech industry. The Greater Houston Partnership finds that Houston has many of the elements needed for tech innovation and says that it is poised to become a tech leader. It says, “In recent years, the region has seen one of the largest overall increases in tech talent in the nation.” The organization reports that there are more than 9,100 tech-related firms in the Houston area.
Artificial Intelligence
Python has an easy-to-read syntax and many libraries and frameworks, which make it well-suited to a variety of AI-related tasks. It also has a large and active community that Programmers can draw on for support.
Security
Python is often used for cybersecurity because of its simplicity and flexibility. It has cross-platform compatibility, meaning that when it is used, programs can run on a variety of different operating systems, and this also makes it popular for security.
Python Job Titles and Salaries
Web Developer
A Web Developer creates and maintains websites, using a variety of coding languages, which often includes Python. Web Developers often specialize in a more specific type of development. For example, a Front-end Developer works on the front part of a site, which users see and interact with. A Back-end Developer focuses on the back-end, which includes things like the server that are essential to the site’s operation but are not seen by users. Another developer title is that of Full Stack Developer, who is skilled in both the front-end and back-end. A Web Developer could also choose to become a Python Developer, which is someone who specializes in web development with Python.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (the BLS), between 2023 and 2033, web development jobs are likely to grow by 8 percent, which is faster than the average growth rate of 4 percent. It ranks the Houston metropolitan area in the top ten U.S. metropolitan areas for the highest employment level of Web Developers, with more than 1,500 people employed. The annual mean wage for a Web Developer in Dallas is $98,000, according to the BLS.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers have a job that includes both programming and data science skills. They use programming languages—including Python—to create programs that will allow computers to perform many actions without being specifically told to do so. Programming, data science, and math skills are important in this field. According to Indeed, a Houston Machine Learning Engineer earns approximately $137,000 per year.
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist works with large quantities of data. They gather it and analyze it to uncover a range of different insights. Data Scientists also create new models that can be used for data analysis. To work in this role, you’ll need strong math, programming, and communication skills. The BLS sees very strong future growth in this field over the next decade; 36 percent, which is far above the average rate. The agency says, “Employment growth for Data Scientists is expected to stem from an increased demand for data-driven decisions.” The BLS reports that Houston employs about 5,300 people in this field, making it one of the largest employers in the country. The annual mean wage for a Data Scientist is $104,000, according to the BLS.
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer uses a variety of coding languages—usually including Python—to build and maintain operating systems, games, and other types of applications and software. According to the BLS, over the next decade, this job field will grow by 17 percent, which is much faster than average. It says, “Software Developers… are likely to see new opportunities because of the increasing number of products that use software. For example, software systems continue to be built for consumer electronics and other products, including IoT-connected devices and electric vehicles.” It reports that Texas has the second-highest employment level of Software Developers among U.S. states. The average salary for a Houston Software Engineer is $91,000, according to Indeed.
Python Classes Near Me
There are several in-person Python class options in Houston. Byte Academy offers a Python Bootcamp, which is a multi-week course where students learn full-stack development skills, starting with Python and other back-end skills. They will also learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, in addition to popular frameworks like React. Students also complete a capstone project, which they can use to show their skills to potential employers.
Another Python class option is the FinTech Bootcamp offered by Rice University Bootcamps. This is also a multi-week course and is designed to give students a comprehensive FinTech education. Covered topics include blockchain, Python programming, cryptocurrency, and advanced trading algorithms. Students also work on a portfolio.
You can also take a Python class through New Horizons. Introduction to Python is a multi-day course for students with no prior programming experience. It covers foundational Python concepts including command-line basics, key data structures, functions, logic and control flow, and debugging. New Horizons also offers a Python class called Python for Data Science, which is focused on data analysis tools such as Pandas, Matplotlib, and NumPy, in addition to a variety of data science skills.
Another option is to take a course through Noble Desktop, a coding and design school that is based in New York City but also runs its classes in a live online format that you can take from any location. The Python Developer Certificate is a multi-week program that will prepare you to work as a Back-end Developer, Software Developer, or Python Developer. You’ll learn to use Django, Django REST, Git, and SQL. You’ll also learn about dictionaries, custom functions, sorting algorithms, and working with APIs. In addition, you’ll work on projects for a portfolio. You’ll also get four one-on-one mentoring sessions. In order to take the class, you should be able to code with HTML and basic CSS. Noble Desktop is licensed by the New York State Department of Education. Its classes come with the option of a free retake within one year.
Another Noble Desktop option is the Python for Data Science Bootcamp. This is a multi-day class and is intended to teach you the fundamentals of Python programming and data analysis. In this class, you’ll learn both basic and advanced Python skills. In addition, you’ll learn to structure programs and work with arrays and data frames. This includes using NumPy and Pandas. You’ll also learn many other Python-related skills including analyzing and filtering data, and using data science libraries like Pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib. A one-on-one training session is also included. This program will prepare you for a machine learning class.
If you’re looking for a more broad education, Noble also offers a Software Engineering Certificate. This is a comprehensive, multi-week course and is intended for students interested in becoming a Full Stack Developer or a Software Engineer. You’ll learn front-end development, React Development, and Django (Python) Development. You’ll also learn many different front-end tools including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. In addition, you’ll learn how to use Flexbox and Grid for layout and adapting to different screen sizes, and Git for version control. The course also covers JavaScript, including data types, loops, and variables, and you’ll learn about the JavaScript library, React. As part of the course, you’ll create a working desktop application with React and deploy it using AWS. In addition, you’ll learn about Python, including sorting algorithms, syntax, custom functions, and dictionaries. You’ll also learn to use Django and Django REST. The course includes twelve one-on-one mentoring sessions. You’ll also create a portfolio that you can use to demonstrate your skills to prospective clients and employers.
Python Corporate Training
Some companies find that it’s beneficial to train a group of employees in Python since this language has so many different uses. Noble Desktop offers several different corporate Python training programs, with the option of either onsite or live online instruction. Live online instruction runs via Zoom or a similar platform. When you schedule training through Noble, you can choose from existing courses or customize content to meet your needs. Expert instructors have both teaching and industry experience, and can provide a variety of flexible scheduling options. All courses include post-training support such as handouts and access to training videos.
Another popular corporate training option is to purchase vouchers for Noble Desktop’s regularly scheduled group classes. This allows your employees to sign up individually for a class that meets their scheduling needs. Noble offers a discount with bulk voucher purchases. To get more information about corporate Python training options, email Noble Desktop.