I think what he means is system programming, not application programming. But TBH I'm so sick of my DE job that I indeed don't care at all about business problems.

Sure we all need them for jobs, hey but that doesn't mean I have to love them. Would that impede my career progression? Sure, but as long as I can get into a system programming without being too close to business, I'm happy for life. Other people can climb the greasy pole, good luck for them.