>While I agree that learning a new skill is best done while in a position, let's not forget those development positions that, either due to employee downsizing or work attitudes, already require you to spend your evenings and weekends as it is just keeping up with development requirements. That doesn't leave much time for anything else including a family let alone training and some managers 'frown' at either not working long hours in the shop at night or not coming in every morning with work done at night. With the job market the way it is (especially in smaller metros) right now for developers, few would have the luxury to leave such a position for one with more freedom and training opportunities at this time. That should be the goal though...

Yes, that's entirely true, especially with most workplaces, although I, in fact do have the luxury of these things, and I do learn new skills but thankfully I can achieve some of these at work (Council is a bit more laid back than your average IT company).

I do feel I am one of the lucky ones, but I am aware of the problems faced with surrounding most people, I'm sure I would have a taste of it if I wasn't in "Retirement City" :)

Kev