What direction in software development?

[ikarcuaso]

Originally Posted by HardDrive

Wow. Thank you all for the advice.

While an Architect role sounds ideal, isn't he going to need some experience and perhaps further education to get into these roles?

Yes. As your friend learns the language and nuts & bolts of his/her chosen development technology, have him/her read this book:

http://www.amazon.com/Code-Complete-Practical-Handbook-Construction/dp/0735619670

It's a great book, well written, and applicable to any software developer, regardless of language/platform.