I think this very much depends on the organization. Many managers are political creatures who view any desire by ICs to move up the non-technical ladder as a di

I think this very much depends on the organization. Many managers are political creatures who view any desire by ICs to move up the non-technical ladder as a direct threat to them. Take the anecdote for what it is, but I've experienced that personally, and have had friends who have as well. It doesn't necessarily end well. In my case, I started seriously considering a constructive termination suit until I finally found alternate employment (it took almost three months--I wasn't in the Bay Area at the time). My current employer is more like what you describe, however, and I'm thankful for it.