So, for those of you who’re wondering why Veik and I are having a silly spat (again):
Caldari castes aren’t as solid-- usually-- as the word “caste” might imply in some other societies. You can move between castes, based on early-life aptitude and testing, or on later-life demonstrated ability. The Caldari pride themselves on recognizing talent and putting it to good use; being born to a Laborer doesn’t mean you’ll be a Laborer yourself (though having the resources to make Executive might be kind of hard).
The basic hierarchy of castes goes:
Laborer - obvious.
Technician - similar, but more specialized. Includes most skilled non-managerial positions.
Executive - includes management of various kinds.
Chief Executive - top-tier-- and the only one you can’t be promoted into by ordinary means. “Great families.”
There are others (scientists, military, dissociated), but that’s the basic hierarchy. Veik’s trying to blur its role. I’m not sure why except that she seems to fancy herself a trickster, and also the “Chief Executive” caste and the great families’ existence is a bit of a, uh, problem, for the State self-image as a meritocracy.
Actually I don’t think it’s much of a failing. It can be very useful to have a sort of circle of people with a whiff of legend about them leading your society, especially if they’re wise enough to know how important it is to delegate.