As someone who is self taught, I treat every job that I have as school. My goals are entirely selfish (as are the goals of my employers). For each place I set up goals and make sure that my work uses those goals. At first it was coding across networks, UNIX hacking and databases. Later it was Java. These days it's hard core 00 programming, automated testing, patterns and XML. It's surprising how you can mold your work to fit your goals and how beneficial it is to all concerned.
Luckily, I have been able to work with some of the best hackers in the business. Their example is in their craft and they have been the best teachers anyone can hope for.
()-()
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