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How Coding is Inspiring Upcoming Entrepreneurs

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How Coding is Inspiring Upcoming Entrepreneurs

By Hunter Amato — Guest Writer, Inland Empire Business Journal

Where there’s demand, there’s an entrepreneur hoping to bring a product to market. This is the day and age of computers, so it should come as no surprise to know that many of those entrepreneurs are turning to code with each passing day.

This trend doesn’t currently show any signs of stopping. As technology continues to penetrate almost every market on the face of the planet, it’s likely to continue. And with good reason! This article highlights a few of the top reasons why entrepreneurs are finding code so tantalizing.

The Fastest-Growing Industries Rely on Code

Each and every one of the Bureau of Labor Statistics’s “fastest growing occupations”, which measures growth in terms of revenue, is heavily reliant on code. That includes solar photovoltaic installers (the number one on the list with a 63% growth rate) and phlebotomists (26% growth rate).

Although these growth rates are quite shocking, they’re not too out of the ordinary. Particularly in regards to tech, growth rates tend to average about 20-30% each year, creating a massive market potential for entrepreneurs to ride in pursuit of profit.

For example, from 2012 to 2017, the field of advanced manufacturing and robotics experienced a total growth rate of 189.4%. That averages out to a positive growth rate of 37.88% per year.

The Vast Majority of Consumers Use Software to Find Business

Without knowledge of code, web development is impossible. At least, without spending thousands of dollars a year on assistance from a web developer. On the other hand, entrepreneurs who know how to code have been capitalizing on that knowledge and expanding their client base.

Research shows that at least 97% of people use the Internet to find local businesses. People don’t just walk around town looking for locksmiths or restaurants like they used to. Nowadays, they go online, Google searches a key phrase, and pick their favorite results.

That means that, if an entrepreneur doesn’t have a website, they’re going to be missing out on, on average, 97% of all available consumers. This fear of loss has proven to be quite inspiring for many modern entrepreneurs.

Code Makes It Easier to Evaluate Talent

Roughly 70% of startups fail within ten years. Of that 70%, 23% cite the primary reason for failing on not having the right team. With a thorough understanding of code, that worry takes on a much less ominous presence.

When staffing a company that deals in technology–which is just about every company on the planet in this day and age–it is critically important to have employees who know what they’re doing. If an entrepreneur doesn’t know much about code, they will find it quite difficult to hire people who do.

It’s as the old saying goes, “It takes one to know one.”

On the other hand, entrepreneurs who have a firm understanding of code that includes how to read, write, and edit it, have much better chances of weeding out the good applicants from the bad.

Most Products Are Powered by Code

Whether in the fin-tech industry or in the coal-mining industry, code powers many of the tools and equipment of the trade. In technology, the reason for that is simple and self-explanatory. Unfortunately, people have long overlooked the importance of code in most other industries.

That is a flaw that many entrepreneurs have capitalized on.

Since just about every business in every industry uses software, every entrepreneur should know how to work that software. At least, that’s the prevailing economic theory among many entrepreneurs in today’s economic climate.

High Demand for Coding Has Increased Profits

Profit is the reward for taking capital from where it is less efficiently being used and reallocating it to where it will be more efficiently used. As more industries adopt code, the importance of entrepreneurs’ understanding of code increases as well.

With more than 1 million unfulfilled programming jobs sprouting up by 2020, entrepreneurs have begun looking into ways of satisfying that unfulfilled demand. This quest led to the creation of countless startups aiming to teach coding for kids through a variety of education means.

One common technique is through the formation of partnerships between existing name brands, such as Roblox, and entrepreneurial enterprises. Roblox coding, for example, has shown to be an immensely profitable allocation of capital, inspiring many entrepreneurs to follow suit.

Conclusion

Code is the gift that keeps on giving. As of 2019, computer scientists have found no better way of creating versatile electronics that are capable of functioning in just about any of Earth’s conditions than through the use of code.

In fact, the importance of code is only continuing to grow. That growth, in turn, causes an increase in demand. That increase in demand has shown to be one of the primary motivators inspiring countless entrepreneurs to start coding.

So, at the end of the day, entrepreneurs are doing what they always do: go where the money is. It just so happens that code is a multi-billion-dollar industry.

For more great content on business, check out our other posts and follow us on Facebook for frequent updates.

Hunter Amato is a guest writer for the Inland Empire Business Journal.
Email: hunteramato1995@gmail.com

The Inland Empire Business Journal (IEBJ) is the official business news publication of Southern California’s Inland Empire region - covering San Bernardino & Riverside Counties.

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Opinion

Ontario International Airport Welcomes Avelo Airlines with New Nonstop Service to Sonoma County

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Expansion Connects Southern California Travelers to Northern California’s Premier Wine Destination

Ontario International Airport (ONT) continues its impressive growth trajectory with the recent announcement from Avelo Airlines about their exclusive nonstop service to Sonoma County and Northern California’s renowned wine country. Starting October 10, the service will operate twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays, connecting travelers directly to the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS).

Streamlined Travel Experience

Passengers choosing Ontario International Airport are set to benefit immensely, not just from the expanded destination choices but also from the significant time savings associated with flying out of ONT. Known for its convenience and efficiency, ONT offers a more relaxed and hassle-free travel experience compared to larger, more congested airports. The smaller scale and thoughtful layout of ONT allow passengers to navigate check-ins, security, and boarding processes much more quickly, reducing the stress often associated with air travel.

Local Impact and Convenience

“Atif Elkadi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario International Airport Authority, highlighted the benefits of the new service, stating, “We are thrilled to add Avelo Airlines to our family of air carriers as we continue to provide exciting new destinations and travel options for the millions of Southern Californians who have made ONT their airport of choice.”

ONT’s strategic location and accessibility play a crucial role in its popularity. Situated in the heart of Southern California’s Inland Empire, the airport is conveniently reachable for residents from San Bernardino to Riverside and the surrounding suburbs. The airport’s proximity to major freeways reduces travel time to the airport itself, which is a significant advantage for local residents and businesses.

Enhanced Access to Northern California

Andrew Levy, Founder and CEO of Avelo Airlines, expressed enthusiasm about the new route, saying, “We are thrilled to announce our new nonstop service from Ontario to the Bay Area/Sonoma County, offering travelers a convenient, reliable, and affordable way to one of the most beautiful and vibrant regions in Northern California.”

Jon Stout, STS Airport Manager, also noted the mutual benefits of the new connection, “It’s fantastic to see Avelo connect Sonoma County with Ontario. This new route will bring a new level of convenience for our local residents and our neighbors in the Inland Empire.”

ONT’s continued expansion and the addition of new routes like the one to Sonoma County reflect its role as a pivotal hub in the region. With the airport on track to exceed 7 million passengers this year and recent records showing more than 650,000 passengers in June alone, ONT is setting new benchmarks in serving the community.

A Gateway to Growth

With world-class facilities and a commitment to excellent customer service, Ontario International Airport is rapidly becoming the gateway of choice for travelers seeking both domestic and international connections. Elkadi proudly asserts, “With our world-class facilities, great amenities, and unparalleled customer experiences, we are proud to connect the world to one of the most dynamic population and economic centers in the country.”

As ONT continues to expand its services and streamline travel experiences, it solidifies its position not just as a transport hub but as a significant contributor to the economic vitality of the Inland Empire.

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Opinion

Surge in Unemployment Among California Youth Linked to Minimum Wage Hikes

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“We have to stop touting the minimum wage as a completely harmless policy, or as some kind of remedy for poverty and income inequality… it is neither.” 

In the past 18 months, California’s unemployment rate has jumped to the highest in the nation and a new analysis by Beacon Economics suggests that this peculiar increase could be a direct result of the state’s recent minimum wage hikes. Most concerning, according to the report, is that the current unemployment effect is specifically harming some of California’s most vulnerable residents—the state’s youth.

The new report highlights the fact that 90% of newly unemployed Californians over the past year and a half are under the age of 35 with the hardest hit group being teenagers. “This loss of youth work opportunity carries with it real long-run harm,” said Christopher Thornberg, Founding Partner of Beacon Economics and co-author of the new analysis. “It not only denies younger workers a critical source of income it deprives them of work experience that has been empirically shown to improve their chances of long-run success.” 

While the recent rise in unemployment in California has occurred in tandem with the state’s minimum wage hikes, the relationship likely extends beyond mere correlation. According to the analysis, the jump in unemployment is incongruous with other measures of the California economy, which have continued to expand at a respectable rate. In fact, both output and household income in the state are robust and growing either faster than or similar to the nation overall. Yet, the unemployment rate in the United States as a whole has barely budged in the past 24 months.

And there is yet another anomaly: throughout the recent rise in unemployment, there has been no corresponding increase in unemployment insurance claims. If laid off tech and entertainment industry workers were driving California’s higher unemployment rate, it would almost certainly be reflected, at least to some degree, in UI claims, according to the analysis.

“For far too long, researchers and advocates alike have held up the minimum wage as a harmless and effective policy remedy for poverty and income inequality, but it is neither of those things,” said Thornberg. “Evidence has shown us that minimum wages don’t do much to address the ills they are intended to correct, but carry a substantial cost, particularly for our state’s future workers.”

Although well intentioned, Thornberg, and co-author Niree Kodaverdian, argue that higher minimum wages cause prices to increase, which end up reducing real incomes for lower-skilled workers. Available data and past empirical studies show that wage floors do very little to divert income from higher income workers to lower income ones, which is how minimum wage laws are typically characterized by proponents.

The specific effect on youth is caused because as labor costs go up relative to other inputs, employers who might have used lower-skilled, entry level workers, such as teenagers, move towards hiring older, more experienced workers, according to the analysis. The idea is that if an employer is legally obligated to pay a higher wage, they will naturally hire more skilled and productive workers to offset higher labor costs. Since those under age 25 make up nearly half of minimum wage workers, this restructuring disproportionally affects the state’s youth.

The report firmly acknowledges the need for policies to help alleviate the strain on lower income households in pricey California but argues that this particular policy remedy doesn’t work as intended, and when pushed too far, can inflict real harm on some of the state’s most vulnerable residents. Better policy options, according to the authors, include the Earned Income Tax Credit, early childhood education, and increased training for lower-skilled adults.

The full analysis can be found here.

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Health & Wellness

Conquering Hanger: Smart Strategies for Balanced Blood Sugar

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Stay Energized and Focused with These Proactive Tips for Managing Hunger and Mood

Wellness Tips By Sarah Goudie, Nutrition Expert & Guest Writer for IEBJ

We’ve all been there: mornings rushed, constant pivots throughout the day, and suddenly it’s 7 pm with no thought given to food. Looking back on those moments, we all know what we resort to when we’re hangry.

Irritable. Scatterbrained. Shaky. Weak. Reduced impulse control. Tanked.

It’s simply the connection between our stomach and brain, as blood sugar levels can affect the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, the fight or flight and stress hormones.

So, let’s address this blood sugar regulation/hangry cycle by taking care of ourselves in a few different ways.

  1. Prioritize Protein and Fat Before Your Morning Coffee: Your first meal sets the tone for the day ahead. Starting with protein before your coffee or favorite pastry can help stabilize blood sugar levels and provide satisfaction and sustenance. A handy tip: prepare a batch of hard-boiled eggs or protein pancakes on your day off for convenient grab-and-go options before you head out. Trust me, cold protein pancakes make for a quick and nutritious bite on your way to work!
 (Try the recipe below!) 
  1. Opt for Balanced Meals: When you have a chance to eat, even if it’s not your ideal meal, prioritize finishing your protein first, followed by your veggies and fruits. If you’re including simple carbohydrates, save those for the end of your meal. This meal sequencing helps regulate blood sugar levels and mood.

  1. Plan Ahead—Even Days in Advance: Sometimes, waking up 15 minutes earlier isn’t enough to ensure a nourishing breakfast and packed lunch. However, planning earlier in the week can alleviate the morning rush before you start your day. I often create a menu tailored to my work week, carefully considering seasonal foods and my personal goals. While meal prepping is fantastic if you have the time and enjoy leftovers, simply having a plan and doing the shopping can empower you and reassure you that your kitchen is stocked and ready.

  1. Slow Down: The quality of the foods we eat is important (think locally sourced, sustainable, clean), but so is the timing of our meals, as well as our mood and our focus while eating. Be intentional about meal times—sit down, step away from your desk, TV, or phone, and fully immerse yourself in the experience of eating. Many times, we eat quickly without being mindful. If you must eat on the go, find a quiet spot, whether it’s a park bench or pulled over in your car. Take the time to see, smell, and taste your food.

  1. SNACK SMART: This last tip is bolded for good reason—it has been a lifesaver for me countless times. Pack snacks. Every day. ESPECIALLY WHEN TRAVELING. We never know what the day will bring, so we must be prepared when we can’t access a full meal. Some of my favorite go-to snacks include “That’s It” bars, “RX” bars, a handful of macadamia nuts, or Paleo Valley protein sticks…not to mention my favorite reusable water bottle (complete with a straw designed to fit perfectly in my car cup holder). Being armed with snacks containing essential nutrients (fat, carbs, protein, and fiber) will help you navigate those moments when you’re tempted to make a fast food run.


*On the topic of fast food: Stay tuned for next month’s article, where I’ll unveil my top picks for healthier alternatives on those unavoidable drive-thru days!

Leaning into these proactive steps can revolutionize your approach to mindful fuel for your body. Embracing protein-rich breakfasts, balanced meal strategies, proactive planning, mindful eating habits, and smart snacking choices nourishes your body. It cultivates a deeper connection with your food and overall well-being. You can take charge of your dietary journey, one thoughtful bite at a time, and savor the rewards of a healthier, more vibrant life.

Check out my favorite protein pancake recipe!

  • Servings: 6 small pancakes
  • 1 large banana
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil for pan
  • 1 scoop of your preferred protein powder
  • 1. Preheat skillet
  • 2. Blend ingredients above
  • 3. Use the coconut oil to prep the pan
  • 4. Cook till golden brown
  • 5. Serve warm, and add some fun toppings! My go-to toppings are hemp seeds, fresh seasonal fruit, a scoop of almond butter, and a drizzle of honey.
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