TECHNICAL AND MANAGERIAL CAREER PATHS: AN UNRESOLVED DILEMMA

Reports a study aimed at using fuzzy ratings to examine the relationship of satisfaction to the fit between career path preferences and perceived career path opportunities among 53 senior engineer managers and 96 trainee engineers. Satisfaction was related to the perceived fit between preference and opportunities. Senior respondents′actual career paths (managerial, technical, or those waiting for promotion into one or other path) were not well matched to their preferences, with those in paths that were less well matched being less satisfied. Despite a strong recognition of the importance of technical excellence in organizations, the managerial career path was perceived as providing the major opportunity for promotion. Outlines possible ways of dealing with the inherent conflict between managerial and technical roles; including recommendations for job evaluation systems, job redesign, and incentive payments to keep up with technical skills.