My dilemma: I'm 27, making 120k/yr (in the NY Metro area), have great hours and generally no stress. On the other hand, I feel like I have ceased growing as a developer and am fearful of my future earning potential if I was to lose my current job.
I am a software engineer for a very small company. I develop Windows desktop software mainly in C++ and .NET. It was my first job out of college. Shortly after arriving, my boss transitioned to a management role so I became the de facto lead programmer. I am able to complete any task asked of me, but I have no one to mentor me. I'm bored, and worst of all, I'm not learning anymore.
It's become very clear in the last several years that mobile and web development are where the majority of jobs are.
I wish I had the time to dedicate to learning new skills on my own but between my full-time job/gym/girlfriend/life it doesn't seem feasible to become proficient enough in a new field to be hire-able.
Bootcamps seem like an attractive option due to the short time period and high job placement rates. But, if I was to graduate one of these bootcamps, would I be starting over at an entry level position? I would be taking a pay cut at the very least. There's also the high cost to consider.
TL;DR
I'm riding a gravy train and if it crashes I'm screwed.
And at a larger company, you might also have more possibilities to find a mentor (or to mentor others) and learn new things.