I started programming in BASIC and machine code during the Period 1986-1989. Then I got a job writing applications in MSDOS on the Amstrad 1512/1640 PC. The language of choice was Microsoft PROFESSIONAL BASIC and the database functions performed with Btrieve.
During 2001 (recouperating from a broken leg) I taught myself DELPHI and rewrote all my applications in that, using PARADOX for the database functions. I had been trying to learn C++ and Visual Basic but found they were too complicated! As I was an engineer anyway, I offered home users the same repair services but at a lower price than any of the competitors. Being a programmer I also delved into web design and settled down to providing web design services as well. A couple of the original customers remain today. My software and web site design businesses still offer that quality service at a very reasonable price.
For quite a few years (2003-2006) I was a part time Tutor delivering the A+ syllabus to students at Wiltshire College.