[imissfirefox]

It’s not a given they were doing something related that could go on a resume. Could have been time off for parenting, caring for an ill family member, unable to legally work (for example living abroad for a partner’s education or work assignment), personal health problem/treatment, etc.

For the community: What are some ways to support a person getting back into the field and avoiding discrimination against time out of work?

[OutOfHere]

That's true. I think the simplest way back in is to accept a lower paying job as long as the work itself is at one's level, then use it as leverage to get back into the bigger game. For example, a remote senior engineer might normally expect 160k, but someone in the op's shoes might have to settle for 120k for the same role until there is more leverage. Also, a contract role may be easier to get than an FTE role.

[taurath]

Give referrals and connections for referrals mainly. Walk them thru interview processes, help them brush up on skills, new advancements.

Had to take 3 years for a health problem during which I mentally just couldn’t code. Still looking and now finally able to practice projects again; it is difficult!