That's why I'm where I'm at. I was a WG-10 step 5 with 16 or 17 years in. They had several WL slots opens, but that is as high as I wanted to go on that path for the same reason. Didn't get referred for a few. one opened with about 6 slots and I got an interview for it. After getting passed over for a supervisor's buddy with less than 4 years and no knowledge of what he was being promoted to (never worked systems that he got selected for), I said to hell with maintenance. My buddy did get one of those slots, he disserved it and I was happy for him. After seeing how the position was treating him, I'm glad I didn't get it, things would not have gone well.
Less than a year later I got a position in scheduling for a different weapon system where I'd spent a year and a half on load during covid period. It's nice not busting my butt on the air plane all day, even nicer being out of that weapon system. Look forward to the day I actually get to start the scheduling part ofmy job. So far I've been serving as an FLS (parts ordering and management) for several aircraft, the last few have been terrible parts wise and just haven't had time to start the transition.
Wish I only had 8 more years. I've got about 11 to the 30 year mark, then another 7 to retirement age. With the way things are going I'm not sure I'll be able to afford to then. Maybe I can take a deferred retirement after the 30 or 37 years and find a way to use that IT degree. By then everything should be paid for so I should be able to live comfortably off part time work. Now watch me get married and have a kid in the next few years, then have to work until I'm drawing SS to pay for their education. (Doesn't seem too likely.)