I thought this sub would appreciate the story of my life and the need for work reform here in America.
I'm 38 years old with an engineering degree. Experience in numerous industries as well as different positions (project management, program management, installation, maintenance, commissioning, sales, etc). I have a couple minor medical conditions though with my thyroid and migraines. I also have a mother that has a bunch of medical conditions and I am basically her part time care taker as well. She can't lift anything over 20lbs, has had multiple back surgeries, arthritis, and damage to her eye muscles that can cause vertigo or severe tunnel vision.
I have always done great work in every position I have been in, no matter what position it was. It seems quite arrogant to say but I am intelligent, a quick learner, good with my hands, and works hard. I have only had one boss or manager that hasn't praised the jobs I have done and most have helped me find other positions. I get suggested for lots of tricky jobs that need a good problem solver or someone who can mediate different customers or clients.
All that being said the longest I have been able to stay at a company has been 3 years because of attendance issues. Even companies that say they have unlimited time off or combined time off (sick/vacation days) will always have HR step in eventually. I have never missed a deadline or project demand though. If I am sick or if my mom needs help, I will still get the work done and find a way. This doesn't mean anything to companies though. No matter how much my managers or bosses fight for me, if you call out 1 or 2 days a month, HR will find a way to get rid of you.
I am currently working as a maintenance technician making much less than someone with my experience and degree should be making. I still help out doing jobs above my position because I enjoy doing it and someone needs to do it. All that being said, I've been with the company for just under a year and I've already had 2 discussions with HR and the only reason I haven't been fired yet is because my boss fights for me. The busy season is almost over and I bet they will let me go with in the next month or so and I will have to start the process all over again.