I have observed two patterns. I can only speak for young men, as I never really worked as an engineer with any women (very tiny ratio over my career). They are hyperfocused at the start of their career, as there is a lot of positive learning and feedback. The promotions (and pay rises) appear quickly. After about 5 years, this slows dramatically as people enter mid-career. This slow down incentivizes many good engineers to enter "cruise mode".

Another big one: Family. (A) They get married and/or have children, so the focus of their life changes dramatically. (B) Or something outside of work becomes more important, like a sick parent or relative.

I don't write about either of these patterns to criticize people.

Did you never slow down? I certainly did.