I’m in my early twenties, my friends are entry to mid level. Companies include Yelp, Google, GE Digital, Capital One, more. Many companies care that you have a degree, but not the major.

It would be hard for a high schooler to get a software internship. Internships are expensive investments and the point is to convert to full time hire (not lose the intern to college). Getting a software job is still hard without a degree but easier than an internship. But there’s no standardized test to pass to become a SWE.

Totally agree SWEs will always be needed, like accountants or nurses. And there will always be standouts who are paid very well in any profession.