The simulator is an excellent reminder that engineering managers sign up for an eternity in the Kobayashi Maru scenario, and there's no way to Captain Kirk it, either.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kobayashi_Maru

I've had the fortune to be able to steer my career back down to IC with no loss of income every time I have been pushed up into an EM role.

Only one data point, but I'm 100% happier as IC than EM.

Glad that you chose happiness.

But there are other players who likes to trade it for Money!

Thanks for sharing the Kobayashi Maru scenario though! Can use it as a fun simulation if someone fails all scenarios to make it light hearted yet meaningful.