Unless you are the most remarkably talented technical person (i.e. architect, scientist, engineer, planner) in your firm, chances are your career will likely top out if you do not take on a management role at some point. Unfortunately, the highly passionate technical professionals in the A/E industry are often reluctant to take on project management, knowing that it tends to entail business development and marketing responsibilities in lieu of the specialized design work that they prefer. Technical and design-focused professionals are indeed correct to assume this. However, it's not necessarily true that the project management route is the only way to advance in their field. 

There is another way. Although the Technical Manager (TM) role has been overlooked in the past, many business savvy firms are beginning to reevaluate this position within their organizational structures. There is a place for the technical guru at the top of the hierarchy after all. So, what does it take to get there?

• A TM must be capable of managing people, organizing projects, hiring and firing, and of course, mentoring more junior employees. Basic managerial skills and the desire to pass on comprehensive knowledge of the industry are key. 

• A TM needs to understand all phases of the projects. While the main strength of the TM is execution, being able to initiate and close the projects are essential.

• PM support. The TM does not have to be the main driver on the sales and marketing side, but must be able to assist the PM when needed.  In theory, the Technical Manager is the backbone of Project Management. 

• The TM must be the leader in his or her field and will be up to speed on the latest technology. 

The Technical Manager can be a great route for the highly technical person who is ready to take on more responsibilities. It is a strong senior level role, yet remains very close to the industrial side of the job. Although many firms have struggled with separating and defining their different types of management, the industry leaders are beginning to pay more attention to the people and their needs for diverse career paths.