Age discrimination has long been an issue in many industries. Older workers may feel that they are being relieved of their duties to be replaced by younger workers, for example. There are protections against this type of discrimination, and deliberate age discrimination is illegal, but it is still something that worries workers as they move forward in their careers.
One thing that is interesting about the tech industry is that some reports indicate that there is ageism occurring on both ends of the spectrum. These reports claim that it has been difficult for workers to find employment if they are over 40 years old, but that it has also been difficult for young workers, such as those in their 20s who are looking for entry-level jobs in tech. These reports claim that this is a clear pattern, rather than a coincidence, and that it is an example of dual-ended ageism.
What do the statistics say?
Statistics do indicate that positions for tech workers are shrinking for those over 40. A report from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) claimed that the percentage of tech workers over 40 dropped from 56% in 2014 to just 52% in 2022.
Reports also looked at the hiring of software developers between October 2022 and September 2025. The employment rate for those between 22 and 25 years old fell by 20%.
Have you faced age discrimination?
Are you a tech worker who feels that your employment has been impacted based on your age? If you believe this is illegal age discrimination, you must understand what options you have.