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Learn low latency network programming in either C++ or something safe like Rust. If you make something people notice HFT companies will beat a path to your door.

Learn Rust, C++, Haskell or OCaml. Or get a PhD in mathematics or physics. Other languages or domains might work, too.

Rust mentioned twice here, maybe there’s something too it

I don’t think it’s possible for me to go down a PHD path.

HFT seems like a cool gig if you can get it

I've been approached several times for HFT or Quant jobs (yes, I know that they're different but I tend to sort them in the same bucket in my mind) because I code in Rust, C++ and OCaml.

I didn't go into the domain because I'm not a big fan of money games. YMMV.

I think your options are:

* get a CS degree from a top tier program, preferably a PHD

* Pivot in from a normal software job. This is probably only possible if you have a bunch of C++ experience, and some top (FAANG) names on your resume.