I just don't like how often it's implied that management is the inevitable next rung on the ladder after staff or lead engineer. As if I'm not ambitious enough

I just don't like how often it's implied that management is the inevitable next rung on the ladder after staff or lead engineer. As if I'm not ambitious enough because I just want to be a good engineer. Employers sometimes dangle the management carrot in front of me, and some people have been outright confused when I tell them I don't covet a management role.