EXPERT ANSWER
Jul 31, 2019 - 01:16 PM
Software development can become a dead-end job after age 35-40, or for that matter at any other age level, and for reasons both within and out of your control. Software development does have a reputation for aging out some people, but for others it is uniquely known for revitalizing careers even well after age 35-40.
The whole idea of software development being a dead-end job after a certain age has been around since internet memes began. Search the web and you'll find dozens of posts and comments arguing one way or the other. Whatever answer you are looking for, you’ll find plenty of snarky, cleverly worded and unconfirmed anecdotes to confirm your bias.
The truth is software development, like any STEM field, requires adaptation, anticipation and lifelong learning to be successful. Your work is fundamentally about solving very difficult problems for which you are going to find at best only partial solutions to guide you.
To age well as a software developer, you need to build up industry-specific knowledge, project management skills, business savvy and mentoring skills. And remember, good software developers are very rare at any age level. Round out your coding chops by being someone whom everyone wants on their team, and is eager to learn from.
The whole idea of software development being a dead-end job after a certain age has been around since internet memes began. Search the web and you'll find dozens of posts and comments arguing one way or the other. Whatever answer you are looking for, you’ll find plenty of snarky, cleverly worded and unconfirmed anecdotes to confirm your bias.
The truth is software development, like any STEM field, requires adaptation, anticipation and lifelong learning to be successful. Your work is fundamentally about solving very difficult problems for which you are going to find at best only partial solutions to guide you.
To age well as a software developer, you need to build up industry-specific knowledge, project management skills, business savvy and mentoring skills. And remember, good software developers are very rare at any age level. Round out your coding chops by being someone whom everyone wants on their team, and is eager to learn from.
Didn't see your question?
About LiveCareer Q&A
