Embracing midcareer in the tenure system

Midcareer faculty are the “keystone” of academia. Faculty in midcareer experience an increase or change in responsibilities and expectations as well as reduced support and mentorship usually extended to junior faculty. Nonetheless, midcareer can be an ideal time for re-evaluating and defining one's career path and taking advantage of leadership and service opportunities. Successful navigation of midcareer is essential to ensure nursing faculty remain in the academic setting, contribute to nursing science, and have a satisfying career. In this paper, we present strategies midcareer nurse faculty can consider to maintain balance and advance their careers even during challenging times. These strategies include appraising career goals, maintaining and expanding mentoring relationships, seeking and utilizing opportunities for leadership development, selecting service strategically to advance career goals, preparing for the unexpected, maintaining/expanding scholarly productivity, learning when to say yes or no, embracing lifelong learning, and improving visibility of one's work. •Midcareer is an ideal time to appraise career goals and expand mentoring.•Midcareer is an opportunity for leadership development and significant service.•Time management and selective collaborations improve productivity in midcareer.•Improved communication and visibility during midcareer may extend influence.•Embracing lifelong learning and expecting the unexpected help maintain productivity.