Unfortunately I didn't get a start with programming until a few years ago. For the majority of my life I've been a cisco networking person. I worked with the Navy and the USMC on the NMCI network for about 7 years prior to starting application development.

I've never really worked for a software development company. I'm still working for the networking company however, I'm writing in home software applications using mainly asp.net webforms. I've recently started writing everything going forward in asp.net mvc and I'm extremely happy with my decision. Going back to webforms is very painful.

I work in a very small group and only have one peer. Neither of us have any sort of senior person to utlitize for progression in our own personal development. I mainly read online blogs and books to improve. I really enjoy reading Joel Spolsky, Rob Conery, Scott Gu, Scott Hanselman, etc...

If by chance you live in the Bloomington/Normal vicinity give me a shout and I'd love to chat about development and any other technologies.