I'm in this same position: -Fairly well versed in html, css, javascript, and PHP -Just getting started with Ruby I've been working in the industry for the last

I'm in this same position: -Fairly well versed in html, css, javascript, and PHP -Just getting started with Ruby I've been working in the industry for the last 8 years but only have an associates degree from ITT (yes I know how that sounds). I'm in more of a consultant role and don't do a ton of development daily. I've wanted to make the change away from consulting back into development. I have taken several interviews but so far not gotten an offer. I'm not an idiot but I know I'm not at a senior engineer level. My advice from these interviews: It seems like everyone (especially smaller shops and startups) want to see what you do outside of your current job. For example they expect you to be able to show contribution to open source projects, etc. I suggest you start either contributing to OSS project or start some of your own projects so that you actually show what you can do. I know I can do these jobs, but I don't have the proof . Everything I do internal to my company is proprietary and contract states it cannot be shared. We are actually forbidden from contributing to OSS without approval for each project. In the situation I'm in I don't have time after working for 8-10 hours and driving 4 hours to sit down and contribute to OSS projects. I'm married and have a house to take care of. I have other responsibilities. It seems like most of these places are looking for recent college grads who have a little bit more time on their hands.