Project work as an antidote to career plateauing in a declining engineering organization
研究衰退组织中职业高原对专业人员的影响，发现项目管理和行政岗位的高原者职业前景更积极，关键在于工作角色中学习、经验利用和认可的程度。
Abstract This is a study of the effects of becoming plateaued on the careers of professionals in a declining organization. An unusual “triple ladder” was studied, one with paths in administration and technical specialization (the two typical components of a dual ladder system), as well as project management (a general practice, technical generalist role). In contrast to earlier studies of plateauing, it was found that occupational characteristics mitigate the effects of plateauing. The plateaued technical specialists experienced the expected declines in job attitudes; however, in project management, and to a lesser extent in administration, it was the plateaued group whose career outlook was most positive. Interview data suggested that the critical factor operating here was not plateauing per se, but the extent to which learning is required and experience and acquired skills are utilized and recognized in the work role . Structural career opportunities, intrinsic job rewards, and recognition were all critical factors in mitigating the effects of the career plateau.