[dougireton]

I do. I'm 47 with 24 years experience in tech. I don't plan to retire anytime soon. I have kids and a mortgage too.

I'm still a Sr. Engineer, not a director or Sr. Director, but I'm happy as an engineer. I've been fortunate to work in a lot of different technologies, Windows Server, Linux, Chef/Ruby, AWS, etc.

I've also invested time in mentoring junior engineers and interns. I find that my experience combined with good listening skills, and an ability to communicate with engineers, non-engineers, and senior mgmt helps me to stay relevant.

I also run a DevOps meetup group and I'm learning Golang in my spare time.

In short, I'm planning to stay in tech a long time. If anything I'm enjoying it more than ever.

My one piece of unsolicited advice is that developing networks in your city can help you move to a company which appreciates you and gives you opportunities to learn new things while working for an empathetic boss. Also, don't underestimate meaningful work. Helping to cure cancer is more emotionally rewarding than serving up ads more efficiently.

Best of luck. Hope you can stay in tech and find meaningful work.

Doug Ireton