[ben_pr]

One of the best hires I ever had was someone that was 50+ about 10+ years ago. He didn't have a technical background but wanted to be a programmer. It was a big risk but in two years time he became my top developer out performing those with 10+ years more experience. Now I primarily look to hire those with a few white hairs as they are much more stable and cause a lot less personal issues than those right out of school. If I was hiring and you really wanted to be a programmer I would certainly give you a shot at it. If you want to be in technology I don't see anything stopping you.

[zer00eyz]

This, old guys don't get enough respect. When I was a young coder I had several over 50 co workers who showed me the ropes. Now that I have gotten old myself I have come to realize that there is a wisdom in age.

The only thing thats stopping you from writing code is you, pick up a book, take a class (think community college don't spend a ton of money on it) -- if you have made it this far in business your probably fairly pragmatic already a skill most young coders have to learn.

[santaclaus]

Most of the older (50+) programmers I've worked with can code up a storm and are virtually drama free. Not sure what all the shade is about!

[PopsiclePete]

A lot of it is the toxic Silicon Valley "everyone-is-a-rebel-rockstar-Ruby-hacker-with-purple-hair-and-a-skateboard" bullshit perpetuated image of what a "programmer" should be. A 50+ guy in nice slacks who is perhaps not even a (gasp) Bernie Sanders supporter might find himself out-of-place in the typical Silicon Valley shop.

It's a culture thing, not a skills thing.

[jamesmp98]

If you are not a Bernie supporter I suggest staying away from Silicon Valley period.

[overcast]

So I shouldn't dye my hair before running the interview gauntlet?

[ProxCoques]

I won't let go of my Just For Men until they pry it from my cold, dead hands!

[maxxxxx]

Shave your head instead.

[overcast]

Blasphemy. My locks are impressively full.

[softawre]

But if you do shave your head, you must get some of those stylish glasses. So says the fashion guidelines of the Programmers of the Middle Age.

[boniface316]

What made you want to hire that person?