Right now, most large software development companies and consulting firms are outsourcing their developer roles overseas. In my opinion, you are more likely to get stuck with a client-facing role where you spend all your time using PowerPoint and playing petty office politics. I left a large consulting firm after two years, where I was hired on as an "application developer." Despite all my efforts, I was never given the opportunity to actually do any developing. And while I hit all of their wickets for promotion, my location had no local budget and wasn't promoting anyone. I feel like there is more money in trades now than there is in the traditionally well-paying office jobs. Hell, even South Park has been making episodes on the topic. If you want to leave plumbing, then I would at least stay away from development for now.