I joined the military straight out of high school and spent 11 years there. (Unfortunately, I did not attend college while in the military, but I did write software.) I've been a civilian for 7 years now and advertise myself as having 12 years of software development experience.

The problem I have is that without a degree, I am hard to promote. My long-term goal is a senior management position (CIO, MIS, etc.). Those positions usually have MS or higher requirements. I needed a way to prove my experience without a degree. I have found certifications to be a great way of doing that. I found the Certified Software Quality Engineer exam from the ASQ. The exam has an eight-year experience requirement built into it. I'm also finishing my MCSD (I've got both Fox tests) and I'm studying for a project management certification from the PMI.

Using certifications, I've been able to compete successfully for director/manager level jobs. I've worked in development management positions for the past three years.

Having said all that.... I am currently working toward a degree in business, because the next promotion will almost certainly require a degree. I am not going to pursue a degree in technology because it just changes too quickly. There are MBA programs with technology specialties. That's probably the way I'll go when the time comes.