Most companies tend to define climbing the tech ladder as moving to a management position, which is something i abhorr. For be it’s better pay, more autonomy, less bullshit from management. Not less coding.

Same. I can't remember where I read it, but the theory why silicon valley companies succeeded is because the role of managers was to clear the way for technical teams / the technical division. The latter were given the freedom to explore and produce results. It feels like most companies come from the old school of "managers control, other execute" and believe success is due to their decisions.

But alas, they’re threatening disciplinary action if people don’t start going to the office at least twice per week starting next month, from the current twice per month.

Sounds like it's time to dust off the CV. Good luck