Since starting programming in 2013, Niall has grown from hobbyist to contract software engineer, combining a love for full-stack development with a degree in Artificial Intelligence. In this blog, Niall shares key career moments, the value of community, and his approach to staying ahead in tech.

Can you share a bit about your background?

I’ve been programming since 2013, and it’s become a hobby. I’m now a contract software engineer, although I have been mainly doing full stack web development.

Did you come up through a “traditional” techie route or has your career taken twists and turns along the way?

I did a 3 year Artificial Intelligence bachelors degree at the University of Sussex, however I had been programming long before that. AI had always been something that I just couldn’t get into as there is so much to it. So the degree definitely helped with that.

Reflecting on your career, is there a specific moment that stands out as pivotal or defining?

Becoming financially independent as a contractor! After this moment I thought “I have made it” doing contract work.

Considering your involvement in Silicon Brighton and community-building, what does the concept of ‘community’ mean to you personally? How important is it in the tech industry?

Community is much more than just the faces you meet. It can lead to wholesome friendships, or even work leads. Doing contract work, I’ve never gotten anything from Linkedin/Indeed/*insert other online job board here*. It’s all been through meeting people face-to-face and building relationships. I definitely don’t go in expecting work, but it can be a welcome follow-up.

How do you balance staying updated with the latest industry trends while ensuring continuous personal and professional growth? Any specific resources or practices you find particularly valuable?

I watch a lot of techie YouTube channels including https://www.youtube.com/@Fireship amongst others.

As someone who has contributed significantly to the community, how do you see mentorship playing a role in the development of the next generation of tech professionals?

The more resources, the better! There are many different styles of learning that work with people, and I believe mentorship is one of the better learning styles. That’s also why I coach at https://codebar.io/

Anything else you would like to promote to our community?

I have a website: https://cdrn.cc/

And my github: https://github.com/eniallator/

And finally my npm (I currently have 1 published library): https://www.npmjs.com/~eniallator

And in general, if there’s any contract work that needs doing, I’d be happy to help.