[optimistically_conservative]

the salary of programmers, with small barriers to entry into the profession --- to put is bluntly, you have a great pool of them --- us(sic) unsustainable.

Explain to me again the need for H1-B programmers?

[TopQuark]

H1B programmers satisfy the immediate, short-term need addressing shortage at a particular skill level. High salaries attract more people into the area and, after few years, the increased supply brings down the salaries. Two different time scales, no contradiction.