[bcrdukes]

This reply is simply to the OP:

It's a double-edged sword, unfortunately. I've seen people get burned by doing so. One extreme case where somebody got let go but how this person approached it was stupid. I won't get into details.

You have to be very careful in how you present your case to your manager and/or the business. The wrong words and the wrong impression could potentially cost you your job. With that being said, I would highly recommend a Plan B and C in which you are:

1. Prepared to deal with the consequences of being let go
2. Prepared to move on if management and/or the company is unable to cater to your needs.

The best way to position this is to let them know you are looking for a personal and career development plan and would like your manager and/or the company to be involved to creating these goals. I didn't read the entire thread so please correct me if I am wrong but if you enjoy the place you work at, best to wrap your proposal around the fact you like the company and would like to stay within the organization. Ultimately, you have to prove to your manager and the company that you are taking the initiative and the drive/motivation to do something about your career. By doing so, they cannot fault you in any way. I recommend you setting some time aside with your manager to discuss your matters.

Obviously, there are many variable internal and external factors which may affect the overall outcome of this and only you know what those factors are. Good luck!