InformationWeek

September 6, 1999

At a crossroads in your career? Paul Daversa, president and CEO of Resource Systems Group, a technology executive search firm in Stamford, Conn. answers your questions on climbing the career ladder.

I'm 33 and have a master's degree in computer engineering, with heavy emphasis on computer hardware. I have 10 years of software development experience, including time as an architect for a midsize product in a large multinational computer company. During these years, I've learned a lot in advanced software development, have spent two years on Web technologies, and have earned an MCSE. However, almost all my working life I have been working for a software vendor, not in companies that use computer technologies. Should I continue on the technical path, or move to management, and eventually become a high-level executive on technologies in a small-to-midsize company?

The vendor side is hotter now than it has ever been in the history of technology. It really comes down to what you want to do. If your concern is around employability going forward, you shouldn't be concerned at all. The mix of technologies you have is terrific so there's no need to change course-- particularly if you like what you're doing.

More Questions: When is the right time to move to pursue my goal to become a VP in IT?

Which degree, masters or MBA, will be more helpful over the long run?