Anonymous

london

Technical Architect

I've worked on Mainframe systems and PC's developed in COBOL C++ and Java to name but a few. I covered procedural programming and OO and most of the business analysis and development paradigms that go with them. I done it with the help of home study and on the job experience. If the home study element was replaced with more formal training I'm sure the majority of competent technical staff could do the same. Experience does count, it lets you understand new technology quicker and to put it into context.

Once again you have to say there is no skills shortage. Just a lot of predjudice around age (not just against older workers either) and a lot of misconceptions on the part of managment who don't understand the issues and are unwilling to pay for training. It's true many older workers are unwilling to retrain but that's mainly because they feel that they probably won't be taken seriously if they try to move to newer technology. These things have to change. We don't throw lawyers out of their jobs at 40 why do we do it with tech staff.