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Am I too old to be hired?

These workers in their 50s and early 60s are struggling to find an employer that will give them a chance. Blame the economy, or is age discrimination at play?

I re-trained, but it hasn't helped yet

age discrimination wilma bauer
  • Name: Wilma Bauer, 56
  • Place: Twin Cities, Minn.

I've been actively looking for work for more than three years, after I was laid off in 2009.

I worked in the printing industry in customer service and account management. When I started doing this kind of work 30 years ago, you didn't need a college degree.

Now, employers want a degree.

I was fortune to get into a state program that retrains laid-off workers in dying fields. I graduated in December 2011 with a two-year degree in accounting.

As I apply for jobs, though, I find companies are looking for accountants with four-year degrees. Even though I have experience with payrolls and invoicing, I don't feel like I'm getting credit for my years of experience.

I'm still looking. I send out resumes nearly every day and I'm networking.

Meanwhile, I'm relying on money I had left over from my student loans. I'm way too young to retire, and I can't afford to retire.

  @AnnalynKurtz - Last updated February 26 2013 09:31 AM ET

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