[kjs3]

I can only think you are looking at some incredibly narrow definition of 'tech' (like "I will only consider SV, VC funded, early stage startup founded by Stanford grads" or "FAANG or nothing!"). I can't think of anyone in my extended peer group (experienced engineers in our 40s & 50s) who doesn't have at least a handful of tech companies banging on the door to avail themselves of that experience. I get a call or 3 a week.

I've certainly run into ageism, particularly past 45, particularly from certain types of companies, but in my experience 'afraid I won't stay' & 'afraid I'll take their job' & other silly excuses in those 'online threads' are usually from people looking for any reason they didn't get the job that doesn't include 'I wasn't the right person for the job'.

To be sure, I expect the general economic slowdown might dent interest, but successful companies run by adults need what we offer.