If you're a woman in engineering or design, you've probably faced the question at some point: should you move into management or stay on the technical path? It’s not always an easy decision. Both routes offer opportunities for growth, but the right choice depends on your strengths, interests, and long-term career goals. Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Two Career Paths
The Management Track
Transitioning into management means taking on responsibilities beyond technical execution. Your role shifts towards leadership, strategy, and team development.
What It Involves:
Leading teams and projects
Handling budgets and resource planning
Coaching and mentoring junior engineers or designers
Influencing company-wide strategy and decision-making
Signs Management Might Be Right for You:
✅ You enjoy mentoring and guiding others
✅ You’re interested in shaping company direction and team culture
✅ You prefer big-picture thinking over deep technical work
✅ You want to develop skills in negotiation, leadership, and business strategy
Challenges to Consider:
❗ Less hands-on technical work
❗ Increased responsibility for people management and performance reviews
❗ Greater focus on budgets, timelines, and stakeholder management
The Technical Expert Track
If you love solving complex problems and deepening your expertise, staying in a technical role might be the right choice. Many companies now offer career growth within technical specializations (often called "individual contributor" or "technical fellow" tracks).
What It Involves:
Becoming a subject matter expert in your field
Innovating and developing new technologies or processes
Publishing research, patents, or technical documentation
Consulting on high-stakes projects within your company or industry
Signs the Technical Track Might Be Right for You:
✅ You love problem-solving and diving deep into complex topics
✅ You prefer working on projects rather than managing people
✅ You enjoy learning and staying ahead of industry trends
✅ You want to be recognized for technical expertise rather than leadership skills
Challenges to Consider:
❗ Fewer opportunities for direct leadership influence
❗ Potential salary limitations compared to management roles
❗ The need for continuous learning and specialization to stay relevant
How to Decide Which Path is Right for You
Making a career transition is a big decision, but here are some ways to gain clarity:
1. Reflect on What Energizes You
Think about past projects: Were you more excited about solving a technical challenge or mentoring a junior colleague?
Consider your ideal workday: Does it involve deep focus on a problem or leading discussions and decision-making?
2. Talk to People in Both Roles
Find women in engineering or design who have taken both paths. Ask about their experiences, challenges, and what they wish they knew earlier.
If possible, shadow a manager or senior technical expert for a day.
3. Test the Waters
Volunteer for leadership opportunities, such as mentoring or leading a small project.
On the other hand, if you're in management but miss technical work, carve out time for a technical project or certification.
4. Consider Your Long-Term Career Goals
If you see yourself influencing company strategy and leading teams, management is likely a better fit.
If you’re passionate about technology and innovation, staying technical can be deeply fulfilling (and lucrative!).
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some women thrive in management, while others find deep satisfaction in technical mastery. The good news? Career paths aren’t set in stone. Many engineers and designers transition between technical and leadership roles throughout their careers.
Wherever you land, ensure it aligns with your strengths, values and what makes you feel fulfilled at work.
If you want some support in managing a career transition then check out my coaching page to learn more about working with me 1:1. I've got some fantastic tools to help you stay accountable for reflection and self growth.
Need a bit more guidance? Then the first step is knowing yourself more deeply. Download my brand new ebook - Know Your Values - to get you making the right decisions for you, now.
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