The graying of the IT workforce

The CIO Council's Clinger-Cohen Assessment Survey found that federal technology employees are aging and poised to retire in the next several years. About 76 percent of respondents said they were older than 40, and 5 percent said they were under 30.

"There appears to be an aging IT workforce with few younger individuals to replace the older ones," the survey analysis states. "Although the workforce is aging, it appears that those closest to retirement do not plan on retiring when they are eligible."

Based on the responses, the typical IT employee:

Is between 46 and 50 years old.

Holds a job at a GS-13 level.

Has more than 20 years' government experience.

Has little or no private-sector experience.

Is likely to retire in the next 10 to 20 years.

May leave the organization in the next three years, but not necessarily leave the federal government.

Holds a bachelor's degree.

Source: CIO Council Clinger-Cohen Assessment Survey 2003