Bill's Billions: A Computer Programming Career

Many people can only dream of earning the billions of dollars Bill Gates has. Why not follow in Bill's footsteps with a computer programming career?

Behind the Billions

William H. Gates was born on October 28, 1955. The son of a lawyer and a teacher, he garnered an interest in software early on. By age 13, Gates was already into computer programming, without any formal training. At Harvard University, Gates developed a version of a computer programming language called BASIC, and soon Gates and childhood friend Paul Allen were off to devote their full energies to their company, the now megagiant Microsoft�.

Computer Programming: Microsoft Magnate

Bill Gates's programming career talents and ideas are apparent in Microsoft's� overall business focus. Microsoft is built upon seven core business units, which make the programming company so pervasive in the technology industry. They include Windows Client (operating systems like XP), Information Worker (MS Office and other programs), Microsoft Business Solutions, Server and Tools, Mobile and Embedded Devices, MSN, and Home and Entertainment (like XBox�).

Financial Figures

Just how successful is Microsoft currently? Net income increased by 50% between fiscal 2004 and 2005. Microsoft netted $12.25 billion for fiscal 2005 compared to $8.17 billion in 2004. Total profits were $39.8 billion for the year, and the computer company projects next year's revenues will make it to the mid forty billion mark for next year.

Getting a Programming Career Online With a Degree

Enrolling in an online programming degree may launch you into the computer industry, just like Gates. Maybe you'll find a niche in his corporation. An online degree can give you the right computer programming training while offering the convenience of a flexible schedule with zero commuting. Plus, an online degree will help to further build your comfort with the Internet during your computer programming training. With the right computer programming inspiration and training, you could find yourself on the road to Bill's billions.

Sources

• Biography of William H. Gates, Chairman and Chief Software Architect, Microsoft� Corporation
• Microsoft Core Businesses
• Microsoft Revenue Train Rolled Along in Fiscal 2005, Scott Bekker, ENT News

About the Author
James Tolles is the managing editor of a Web publication and also a freelance writer. He holds two B.A. degrees, one in Creative Writing and the other in History.