Python is one of the most popular computer programming languages worldwide, routinely listed in the top three languages in online surveys. It is an object-oriented language, or OOP, which means that it organizes around data (objects) rather than functions or logic.
Python as a language has an unusual history. Originally developed by Dutch programmer and Monty Python fan Guido van Rossum, Python has become the preferred programming language of data science and analytics professionals. Titles for Python users can include, but are not limited to:
- Business Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Financial Analyst
- Full-Stack Developer
- Python Developer
- Python Engineer
Python training often combines this essential programming language with other tools like SQL (structured query language), machine learning, or Django REST (representational state transfer). Consider a bootcamp or certificate program that features Python or includes it within a wider development or data science curriculum for the best results.
What Can You Do with Python Training?
What you can do with Python training depends on multiple factors, including how and where you plan to use your newfound skills, current experience, and field of endeavor. Some office professionals use Python to automate tasks, while others must have intermediate or advanced Python proficiency for data science, analytics, or development. Consider the following high-level projects you can do using Python:
- Automate Tasks—Automating repetitive tasks like sending emails or searching your company’s SEO performance is easy with Python. Office admins and SEO specialists can automate these tasks using popular Python libraries.
- Make A Chatbot—Chatbots that automatically reply to various queries have become commonplace, but not everyone knows how they are made. Machine learning algorithms using Python can help. Data science or analytics beginners often find creating a chatbot an excellent portfolio project.
- Analyze Trends—Data science and analytics professionals can use well-known Python libraries like Matplotlib, NumPy, and Pandas for trend analysis. This also makes a good project for data science beginners.
What Will I Learn in a Python Class?
Learning Python typically comes with multiple additional skills and tools, though a few beginners may try to teach themselves. However, since most people study Python within a broader development, data science, or analytics course, the curriculum of a Python-centered class varies. Consider the following topics that may be part of your Python education:
IDEs and Code Editors
If you code Python, you need an integrated development environment (IDE) or code editor. Top options include PyCharm, Visual Studio (vs. Code), and Sublime Text, but your Python class may teach a particular one.
SQL
SQL is short for Structured Query Language, an essential tool for many Python professionals. Various types of tech workers need SQL to manage relational databases. SQL integrates with popular programming languages like Python, Java, and R. The most common SQL databases are Microsoft SQL Server, PostgreSQL, and MySQL.
Libraries & Frameworks
In computer programming, libraries are packages that perform certain operations, and frameworks provide tools to build applications. Top Python libraries include NumPy, scikit-learn, and TensorFlow, and top frameworks include Django and Flask. Developers typically need Python libraries for back-end development, whereas data science pros may need them for data visualization.
Tableau
Like SQL, data visualization is an essential skill for many Python-centered roles, especially in data science and analytics. High-level software programs for data visualization include Tableau from Salesforce and Power BI from Microsoft. Users can create and share charts, graphs, or other data representations with these tools. If you take a Python bootcamp or certificate for data science or analytics, chances are that it will cover Power BI or Tableau.
Statistical Regression
Many Python professionals have strong mathematics backgrounds, and if they have taken statistics classes in the past, they usually have regression analysis experience. Consider statistical regression essential if you take Python training for data analytics or machine learning.
How Hard is It to Learn Python?
While it might be a stretch to call any computer programming language easy to learn, Python has an international reputation as an excellent first programming language. Of course, becoming familiar with a skill and becoming an expert are two different things. You might find Python easy if you have experience with other programming languages. If not, it can make an excellent place to start.
What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning Python?
Different Python users find varying aspects of learning Python challenging, depending on previous experience with other languages and how and where they must use the language. For example, some find integrating Python with disparate tools and skills challenging, whereas others consider it easy. Consider a bootcamp or certificate program where each training module builds on previous lessons to make any challenges easier to overcome.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Python?
Learning Python fundamentals can take as little as six weeks, but mastering intermediate or advanced Python can take up to six months or more. As in other aspects of training, course format, coding experience, and whether a beginner learns part- or full-time are all relevant factors. These are all reasons bootcamps and certificate programs have such a good reputation—they provide substantial training in a concise timeframe.
Should I Learn Python in Person or Online?
Some people prefer to learn Python in a traditional classroom format, whereas others choose live online courses for their training. Consider the advantages or drawbacks of the following training methods:
- In-Person: Among the most popular methods for Python training, in-person courses offer unique advantages. Courses in the traditional classroom setting often provide training units on programming languages and their libraries and frameworks. In-person learning offers real-time interaction between students and instructors, an engagement level no other method can beat. The only potential disadvantages are commuting and finding a parking space.
- Live Online: Training online via teleconferencing provides student engagement comparable to in-person classes, and you can learn from the comfort of your home or office. Another benefit is that there are many more options online than in-person.
- On-Demand/Asynchronous: On-demand or asynchronous training typically consists of pre-recorded instructional videos. Some on-demand courses include additional supplementary materials, like workbooks or a student chat group. While on-demand videos can offer a lower entry cost and the ability to watch at any hour, they also provide lower engagement than live training. Consider asynchronous learning if work or family obligations prevent you from attending a live program.
Can I Learn Python Free Online?
While anyone can go online and read or watch videos about the Python programming language, professional-level skill development doesn't come free. Free resources like the Noble Desktop YouTube channel and Learn Hub are a great way to get oriented to Python fundamentals before enrolling in a course that features Python or includes it within a broader development or data science curriculum.
What Should I Learn Alongside Python?
Many skills can complement Python, so what to learn alongside it depends on multiple factors. Data science and analytics pros may need to master Excel, SQL, Jupyter Notebook, Power BI, or Tableau. On the other hand, Python development roles can require HTML, CSS, Django REST, or Visual Studio (vs. Code. Understand the typical requirements for the role you want before enrolling in a Python training program.
Industries That Use Python
Portland is the business hub of the Northwest, desirable for everything from job opportunities to being one of the greenest cities in America. This internationally known city attracts tech workers, nature lovers, and growing families, and its economy continues to grow. Consider the following top industries for Python careers in the “Silicon Forest.”
Apparel & Outdoor Gear
Known as the leading US city for the apparel and outdoor gear industry, Portland hosts Columbia Sportswear and Nike World Headquarters. Recent online listings for Python positions in sporting gear here include Data Analyst, Software Engineer, and Machine Learning Engineer.
Biosciences & Healthcare
The healthcare industry employs more people than any other Portland industry, and when combined with biosciences, the number is even higher. Python roles in healthcare include Drug Discovery Data Scientist, Data Analyst, and Software Engineer.
Manufacturing
Advanced manufacturing is a Portland industry that covers many subsectors in the area. These include plastics, metals, and electronics. Top employers in manufacturing here include Boeing, Gunderson, and Daimler Trucks North America.
Technology
Technology is another essential industry in the Portland area, and top tech employers here include Intel and Amazon. Tech companies require numerous workers with Python expertise, including Software Application Development Engineers, Data Scientists, and API Developers.
Python Job Titles and Salaries
Many careers require Python proficiency, especially in big cities like Portland. While some require data analysis, others require a different skill set, like software development. Consider the following top roles and what they pay in the Portland area:
Data Analyst
Data Analysts with Python expertise are in high demand in Portland, with job openings in everything from apparel to civil service. These skilled professionals typically earn about $82,000 annually in Portland, which promises to go even higher in the future.
Financial Analyst
Portland-area Financial Analysts work in nearly every industry, including civil service, energy, and BFSI (banking, financial services, and insurance). Many earn over six figures, as their average base pay here is around $101,000 annually.
Data Scientist
Among the most respected Python professionals, Data Scientists work in numerous industries. Portland organizations hiring Data Scientists include multinational apparel corporations, tech companies, and data annotation organizations. Many Data Scientists earn over six figures here, with the average annual base salary running about $109,000.
Python Developer
Python Developers are some of the best-paid Python pros in Portland. Some need high-level security clearances, whereas others are with more private tech-based companies. Their average annual salary is around $130,000, comparable to the national average for similar positions.
Python Classes Near Me
Noble Desktop hosts numerous Python training classes, including their immersive Python for Data Science Bootcamp. This popular 30-hour course covers Python fundamentals, Boolean operation, and data visualization with Matplotlib. You can save by taking the Python for Data Science Bootcamp as part of the Data Science & AI Certificate, AI & Data Science Certificate, or Data Analytics Certificate programs.
Another respected course provider is New Horizons. They offer beginner-level, intermediate, or advanced Python training in nearby Beaverton. Courses include Python Programming, Python 3 Essentials, and Using Data Science Tools in Python. Check course listings for in-person or online availability.
Fullstack Academy provides beginner-friendly Python training for area residents. Their Online AI & Machine Learning Bootcamp covers essential Python and related topics in an intensive 26-week program.
Fullstack Academy also powers Oregon State University’s Online Data Analytics Bootcamp. The program includes data analytics essentials like Excel, SQL, and Python and is available full- or part-time for students.
Another provider with courses available to Portland-area residents is iD Tech. Their Intro to Python Coding for Machine Learning introduces beginners to object-oriented programming and neural networks. High school students can take a longer introductory course, Python Camp: Intro to Coding & AI.
The Tech Academy offers intermediate Python development training in the form of their Python Developer Bootcamp. This intensive curriculum that combines Python with HTML and CSS, SQL, and JavaScript is available in 15 weeks full-time or 28 weeks part-time.
Python Corporate Training
Would your team benefit from corporate and onsite Python training? Noble Desktop in-person and online training options include:
- Python for Data Science Bootcamp
- Python for Automation
- Intro to Python Programming
- Python in a Day
- Python Machine Learning Bootcamp
- Machine Learning & Automation for Finance
- Algorithmic Trading With Python
Noble Desktop can also customize a program to meet your organization’s requirements. Check course listings for details, including any prerequisite information.
Would you prefer your employees have greater flexibility with their Python training? Noble also offers discounted vouchers for open-enrollment group courses. Employers get a discount when they purchase the vouchers in bulk, providing a convenient option so an organization can select the training format that best suits its needs. Contact Noble Desktop for more information and a free consultation.