American workers' wages stagnant, even in a great economy: why?

[RoadRunner79]

I would agree that trickle down economics has been oversold in the past, however I also believe that if the company doesn't have extra money, that it is also difficult to get a raise. I believe in balance, I also believe in the free market.  

We had a large increase in benefits with the initiation of Obamacare (increase in cost, quality went down).  And we where told that this was our raise.   I did receive a pretty good raise this year (along with tax decrease).  I was also willing to go somewhere else if things where much better there (either more pay, or less work for the money).

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It may be difficult In a larger company, and perhaps they don’t care about turnover (poor management).  However, I would be bringing it up often, if you are doing more work, getting paid the same, and the company is doing well. If you do it respectfully, it never hurts to ask or remind them. And if it’s better elsewhere, then leave.

LOL as if I haven't done those things. FYI, I work at a very profitable small company, and have since the doors opened. We've been more profitable year over year and over the last ten years, real wages have declined. Benefits have declined. Costs shifted to employees. Common industry practice. I should leave a 19 year stint where I am now senior engineer for where, exactly?

I'm 51 years old, with niche software development skills to distinguish myself from much younger developers. Valuable skills, but not in demand. Age discrimination is also rampant in this industry. H1-B's. Offshoring. It might be a free market were the playing field level. It is not.

"Trickle down" was hardly oversold, it's a fucking scam and it's only served to widen the divide between the haves and have note and shrink the middle class.

Ok... so there are other reasons you are staying which are greater than the pay issue. I understand, I’ve given up money a few times myself for things more important. I was also willing to leave for a better offer recently (not necessarily money, but perhaps). I can understand complaining, but forcefufully taking is another matter, I can’t get on board with. I personally think that actors and athletes are overpaid, but if they can get it....good for them.