Careers in software: is there life after programming?

Students interested in information systems and information technology careers can see a clear career path - from programmer to chief information officer (CIO). However, those interested in computer science or software engineering are attracted to the technology and seem not to consider what happens at later stages of their careers. This paper draws on a three-year study where senior software practitioners across a variety of roles were interviewed about their work. The findings show profound difficulties in making the transition from hands-on technical work to a role where they achieve through guiding the efforts of others.