Exactly. A mediocre programmer may have the ability to become a great programmer, especially if he or she has the people skills that allow him or her to learn

Exactly. A mediocre programmer may have the ability to become a great programmer, especially if he or she has the people skills that allow him or her to learn quickly, and if your other programmers are willing/able to answer questions and mentor the person. Nobody becomes a great programmer overnight. The key is to find the people who will grow into the position and then help others do the same.