I work in IT, and I notice that a number of pilots on here seem to want to drop flying and move into that. Thing is for either job you are going to have to start at the bottom regardless of what you have done before. Sure the conditions might be a bit better in IT as a grunt tech support in Sydney rather than living in a tin shed in north WA, but either way you won't do the high paying or more technical roles until you have the experience and skills to show you can do it (or, know a mate - the universal progression method).
I would love to be flying instead - my work has gotten fairly flat now and upwards progression is limited for my skills, and I have no interest in management. For flying I am not interested in airlines as I feel I would be happier with more hands on flying (stary eyes and all that) - Ag flying appeals to me but I know that is a long road. From what I can see airlines would be the only way I could get parity with my current wages, but as above, that is for 12 years of highly specialised experience.
I don't mind taking a pay cut, but the single engine rates are just not practical with a wife, kids and mortgage in tow, and being tied to Sydney at the moment limits options even more so. My wife is going into teaching so at some point we might be in western NSW. If we can make up the shortfall that might be my opportunity but I am not holding my breath.
I would hope having a bit of maturity, experience (even non-aviation) and being settled with kids would overcome some of the issues highlighted in the article. I dont know, would an operator be more willing to trust a 32 year old making their way up with a family to build some hours with them vs an 18 year old indestructible?