Carolyn, Let me add my groans and condolences and more! I'm just a criminal defense attorney, but if you want me to troll around for good employment lawyers over in Denver, just say the word. If there's anything I can do--really, let me know. Even if it is just to meet up for a run sometime soon--I have a bunch of Colorado runs pencilled in on my calendar. We could cruise along and you could vent, whatever. Amy

Hopefully I can use this as an opportunity to find something new and different.

Wildchild, I'm sorry. Yes, you're right about this being an opportunity. And because you've already recognized this, I feel great things are in store for you. Good luck!

Thank you all so much for your support! It means a lot to me. It's sad how common this has become - seems like a lot of you have been through it before. I told our HR person today that the other employees I've told about being laid off are worried and think they may be next, and they're starting to look elsewhere. She said she wanted to reassure them, but I pointed out that she couldn't promise them their jobs are secure. Also, as I start to contact my friends in the industry to look for work, the word will get out that my current company isn't doing well, which won't be good for them either. Too bad I don't care. I did get a copy of the agreement I signed 18 years ago, and it had no mention of non-compete. The HR lady said that's not what they have people sign now, but again, I don't really care. The client I'm hoping to steal called today and needs me to visit their plant and go with them to a meeting with their state regulators next week. I told them I'm being laid off at the end of the month, but I'd be happy to go next week. So that's looking promising. I'll get to spend 3 days with them and I'm sure I can bring up future consulting. I do have to be careful as I'll still be on the company payroll next week. This is not the same client as the one with the 6 month job where I'm being replaced by junior guy. Anyway, thanks for your kind words and support. I'll keep you posted.

wildchild, I'm saddened that you have to deal with this. Sparerib's post about your character the other day pretty much sums things up. This is your company's loss, and I have no doubt you will come out of this better off than you were.

Carol's right - when architects and engineers heard that we were starting a new firm, they went out of their way to send business our way. Companies that were overloaded with work called us to help out. That's our favorite kind of client - swamped engineers who understand the industry and pay us on time!