[Python-talk] Popularity of Python ?

[Ted Roche]

Peter Courlis wrote:
> Greetings
> 
> Since the programming language: Python is gaining in
> popularity and growing, is there interest or movement in
> a Certification, for programming skills in this language ?

Unlike 90% of the community, I actually value certifications, though
perhaps not with the perspective most people seem to have. One of my
favorite Dilberts of all times is the one where the noobie spreads his
arms and declares "I summon the power of certification!!!" Nothing
happens, of course.

Certification can serve several purposes: self-validation, minimal
knowledge achievement, a guided study path, and a means of marketing
oneself. None of these are bad of themselves.

In several careers, I've received certifications such as Senior
Lifesaving, First Responder, First Aid, CPR, Fire Watch, NASDS (SCUBA)
diver, Submarine Damage Control ("dolphins"), Throttleman, Electrical
Operator, Shutdown Reactor Operator, Novell Certified Network
Administrator, Microsoft Certified Professional, Certified Systems
Engineer and Certified Solution Developer, and MySQL 4 Core
Certification. None of these make me competent to operate your computer;
20+ years experience in the field helps there. None of this makes me a
better developer/sysadmin that a competitor, but it does show an
initiative to go get the piece of paper, something akin to putting up
with 4 years of college to earn a sheepskin.

I think certification (and BS degrees) are over-rated by HR departments,
which don't accept applications from people without certain checkboxes
on their resume. At the same time, I recognize that a certification
means that the applicant at least ought to have heard of some features.
It's a learner's permit, not a sign of mastery.

And the logos look good on your business cards ;)

Q: What do they call the guy who graduates at the bottom of his class
from med school?

A: "Doctor."

-- 
Ted Roche
Ted Roche & Associates, LLC
http://www.tedroche.com