Meet the Instructor: Nick McAlpine

How long have you been coding? How did you get started?

Seriously for about three or four years now I think. I needed to do a macro in an Excel workbook for work and that was it I was hooked. I progressed on to data and SQL as well as using bat files to make ASCII animations (just for funsies). One day a colleague randomly asked if I could help her brother with a website project he had to submit. I was given the task on the Friday and followed a tutorial and tweaked some bits and handed back a working WAMP project on the Sunday. I knew from that moment this is what I wanted to do. Two weeks later I had joined Manchester Codes and graduated 6 months after that.

What do you enjoy about working at Manchester Codes? // New? What are you most looking forward to with working at Manchester Codes?

My colleagues are brilliant to work with and the students are passionate, driven and curious! Having graduated Manchester Codes in 2018 and now spent a few years in the industry I am honoured to come back and help others make the same journey I did. Being there through the tough spots to support and help and then seeing them beam with joy when they triumph is massively rewarding!

What gets you excited about Technology?

Its always moving. There is always something new to learn whether that is new tech, languages, frameworks or how to do things better. There are also real opportunities to do good and help make the world a better place.

Favourite language and framework/library/ tool?

So far I have used JavaScript and node the most but I don't think I have a favourite. Depends on the job that needs to be done really.

Least favourite language and framework/library/ tool?

Visual basic

One piece of advice you have for people fresh to Software development?

I think my favourite quote here.... "Every great software developer you know got there by solving problems they were unqualified to solve... until they actually did it".

Outside of work, what do like to do for fun? How do you spend your downtime?

Ah no, the pressure question! This always makes me feel like I need a really kewl adrenaline junky type hobby like scaling mountains. Alas, just the usual things I am afraid. Coding, mates, gigs, films, having a cheeky beverage or two and gaming.

What did you want to be when you were younger?

To be honest I think it changed every few weeks.

Do you have a pet? If so, what do you have?

I am afraid I don't but I would love to have a dog (as much as I love cats).

If you were stranded on a remote island, alone. What piece of technology/ gadget would you be unable to live without?

HHmm...something I can game on!

Command Shift logo
MCRCODES LTD
Office One, 1 Coldbath Square
London
EC1R 5HL