>Tom,
>
>A gross case of age discrimination if I ever saw one. How did they get away with it?

Jim;

I think there is a great reluctance to sue for age discrimination as you might win but would be “black listed” by employers. Most employers prefer to not hire anyone who is over 40 in technical areas. During the period of 1990-1992 there were 60,000 unemployed electronic engineers in Silicon Valley. That is why I went to programming full time. Today we are told we lost 160,000 programming jobs in Silicon Valley. Did I choose the “best career”? Only if I survive can I answer in the affirmative. I must say that I am trying to do my best to enjoy the ride (life) while contributing to the company I work for.

One thing we were told about looking for employment – do not indicate the date of your degree. There was a guy I knew who was in his early 60’s that went back to school to get his MS in Engineering. He got the advanced degree and placed the date on his resume. He then dyed his hair (it was white) and got a very good job! We congratulated him for his actions. Break the rules and enjoy the benefits.

I have been interviewed by many 20 year olds during the last 12 years. After working at Ampex for 15 years where analog and digital tape recording were invented, I applied for a job at a local video house. I was about 48 at the time and the HR manager was about 25 and told me, “We cannot hire you as you old timers know nothing about digital video”. I said thank you and left. He could care less that I have patents related to digital video and helped to create the International Standards for the CCIR. We old timers just do not understand anything and do not know how to contribute.

There are so many things wrong with the employment arena. Age discrimination is just one of them. Trying to do anything about it is a joke and like trying to hold back the tide with your own two hands. You will find more than a leak! As I often say, keep a smile on your face so people will think you are crazy. It helps! :)

Tom