“同事加班猝死，1个月后就被遗忘”！40+岁大厂老兵「主动被裁」：年薪百万、常春藤毕业，却被彻底榨干

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the journey of a former tech engineer, ADE, who was laid off after 25 years in the industry, reflecting on the challenges and changes in the tech job market, and offering guidance for young professionals entering the field [1][18]. Group 1: Career Journey and Challenges - ADE, a seasoned engineer with a prestigious background, faced his first layoff after voluntarily placing himself on the list to save younger colleagues [3][18]. - He recalls his early career struggles, including a lack of foundational skills and the steep learning curve he faced when starting in a tech role [6][8]. - The 2008 financial crisis was a pivotal moment for ADE, leading him to understand the importance of financial prudence and the concept of "exchanging life for money" [12][11]. Group 2: Work-Life Balance and Industry Realities - Despite a lucrative career with six-figure salaries and stock options, ADE experienced significant work-life imbalance, often sacrificing family time for work commitments [15][13]. - The high-pressure environment of the tech industry, coupled with rapid technological advancements, made it increasingly difficult for ADE to keep pace as he aged [15][19]. - The loss of a colleague due to work-related stress highlighted the harsh realities of the industry, prompting ADE to reassess the value of his time and contributions [16][17]. Group 3: Guidance for Young Professionals - ADE emphasizes the importance of passion in choosing a career path, advising against entering the tech field solely for financial reasons [21]. - Building a personal brand and gaining practical experience through internships and projects is crucial for standing out in a competitive job market [22][23]. - Flexibility and adaptability are essential, as young professionals may need to explore adjacent roles or freelance opportunities to gain entry into the tech industry [25][26].