I've got 23 years experience in the IBM midrange systems development field. It's a market that IBM has not promoted well in the last dozen years or more, and has fallen off considerably. The work is usually good and steady when you can find it. IF you can find it. And in this area, the Research Triangle of NC, IBM had never really adequately pushed their midrange platform as in other areas.
For a long time now, I have needed to broaden my horizons a little more, metaphorically speaking.
I am confident that I would not have much difficulty finding work in other geographic areas while staying in this diminished IT niche. But relocation sort of defeats much of the purpose. And I have considered going back into consulting (the days for freelance have been over since the early 90's, I'm afraid, ever since the tax laws changed to make it so prohibitive.) But consulting/contracting is usually quite unstable work for someone with kids, and it often means traveling distances to serve the client's needs. Telecommuting is still the exception rather than the rule, even in IT, sadly -- employers and clients still want to keep you close at hand.
I told xW by mobile phone this morning, while the boys were occupied in another room (gotta' love Saturday morning cartoons.) She seemed outwardly composed, taking it in stride. We discussed the local market and prospects. I've got a first-step telephone interview with an HR person on Monday, for a local firm. I've also been talking with a headhunter. And I've been trying to network. We discussed insurance coverage and the like. We ended it with me telling her that I wanted things BAU with the boys until we know otherwise. I would keep her informed how things start gelling or not.
I got the facts out in front of her, and she didn't seem to have any extreme reaction, that I could tell of. That does't mean she isn't right this very second going out and taking measures out of panic or opportunity. But I can't help what she does with this beyond what I've already done anyway. (Couldn't keep her from overreacting when we were together, so it's certainly not possible now.)
All in all, after I have exhausted everything with in my power to do and made every effort with what abilities I have, it is in God's hands.
And I am extremely grateful that even though the economy is about the worst I've ever seen, at least we don't have all the extreme panic and uncertainty everyone was facing ten years ago when I was last laid off, right after 9-11! <shiver>
I appreciate your words of advice and commiseration, friends. Thanks for your responses.
