If you have interacted extensively within the Web3 space, you have likely encountered the term ‘devs’. The term refers to developers’ blockchain developers, to be specific.

A blockchain developer is a software developer who specialises in creating and implementing blockchain-based solutions. Blockchain developers design, build, and maintain decentralised applications (dApps) and smart contracts on blockchain platforms like Ethereum, Bitcoin, Hyperledger, EOS, and others. Their work involves a deep understanding of blockchain technology, cryptographic principles, and decentralised systems.

Now, it’s important not to think that all these things are out of reach. Anyone can be a blockchain developer, even you. This article will highlight the steps someone aspiring to be a blockchain developer needs to take to achieve his goals.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become a blockchain developer:

1. Understand Blockchain Fundamentals

Before diving into blockchain development, it's crucial to understand the basics of blockchain technology. Learn about the origins, practical applications, and key concepts of blockchain.

Staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the blockchain field is crucial for your growth as a developer. There are numerous resources available online and offline, including tutorials, books, and training programs. Following programming-oriented YouTube channels, tech blogs, and newsletters allows you to stay connected with the vibrant community of blockchain developers and enthusiasts.

Websites like FreeCodeCamp.org offer extensive hands-on programming practice and certifications, along with a YouTube channel. Platforms like Dapp University specialise in blockchain developer content, particularly for developing decentralised applications on the Ethereum platform.

2. Learn About Decentralized Applications (dApps)

Decentralised applications, or dApps, operate autonomously on open-source, distributed ledger platforms using smart contracts. The Ethereum network is the most widely used blockchain for Web3 applications, hosting the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), which allows developers to create dApps; to become a good blockchain developer, you need to know the ins and outs of it.

EVM’s versatility, security, and rich ecosystem make it popular among blockchain developers. For beginners, Dapp University provides a video tutorial on building dApps using Ethereum.

3. Attain Certifications

An entry-level blockchain developer typically starts with a formal education in computer science or information security, although related fields like mathematics and engineering can also be sufficient. It's important to gain both a developer’s skill set and foundational knowledge of blockchain and cryptocurrency concepts.

It’s okay if you do not have a degree. While most companies still require a bachelor's degree, many employers have shifted their focus to skills over formal education. You can gain the essential skills to become a blockchain developer through coding boot camps or online programs. Completing blockchain developer courses and obtaining certifications, regardless of having a degree, can significantly enhance your job prospects.

4. Understand Crypto-economics

As a blockchain developer, you need to have an in-depth understanding of crypto-economics. Crypto-economics combines cryptography, economics, and computer science to study and design decentralised networks and systems, particularly those based on blockchain technology. The goal is to understand and influence the behaviour of participants within these networks by leveraging cryptographic techniques and economic incentives.

It’s important for blockchain developers to design Dapps or provide blockchain-based solutions with crypto-economics at the forefront of their minds. This makes the solutions practical and leads to better products all around. Having an in-depth understanding of crypto-economics will give you an edge in the eyes of employers.

5. Get Hands-On Experience

Everything mentioned above is important, but nothing is as vital in your journey to becoming a blockchain developer as actually doing the work. Aspiring developers can hone their skills at hackathon events. These gatherings bring together programmers from various fields to collaborate intensively on software projects. Participants typically work on designing a fully functional software system within a set time limit.

The internet is full of opportunities for hands-on experience. For example, practice labs, commonly referred to as “sandboxes,” offer a place to experiment with code within a contained, safe environment without impacting live sites. They can take shape as a standalone, in-browser page or sidebar feature accompanying a virtual classroom, promoting a live learning experience by allowing students to test code in real-time. This is just one of the many options available. Your most valuable asset when applying for blockchain development jobs is your ability to get work done. You can visit platforms like PluralSight, Skillsoft or CBT Nuggets for an immersive learning experience. Also, feel free to visit community sites like GitHub, which allow developers to contribute to open-source projects when you need assistance or inspiration.