Only half of those 22 years have been spent as a professional programmer, so I'm still young enough for it to not be a problem. Besides, i have spent my entire professional career at the same company which is big enough for there to be enough internal opportunities to switch focus. Still, if it ever does get to be an issue I'll just become self-employed. I doubt that age matters all that much if you're a consultant / contractor.
I have been offered a management track several times and always say no. I don't think i would be happy doing it.
I have been offered a management track several times and always say no. I don't think i would be happy doing it.