Is Starting an Engineering Degree at 32 a Risky Career Move?

[brusier]

My story can be summed up in a few sentences. After I earned my bachelors in 2001, I entered the military with the hopes of earning some morey more for graduate school. I decided to maintain aircraft and fell in love with the community/industry. Now, I am not so interested in getting a grad degree but would rather use the money for an engineering undrgrad degree. My first degre is in Health and Phys Ed so really it cannot be used toward earning an engineering grad degree so really I saw a second bachelors as the way to work as an engineer.
My question is, at 32, is this a risky move? I have been maintaining and building aircraft for 7 years now and consider that to be some good experince in the industry. However, getting a second degree and starting work in a new field in an industry is much like starting at the beginning. So, how would a person in that situation be viewed? What kind of career opportunities might I expect?
Currently, I am looking into the accelerated five year combined BS/MS Engineering Physics Degree at Embry-Riddle University because it would graduate me with a Masters. It is expensive but the Navy would pay for the first three years leaving me to pay for the final two -- still very expensive but attractive. There are other undergrad options that I am considering mostly in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Design.
I would have to say that my main concern besides the heavy course work is starting over at 32. Other than that, engineering is a great passion of mine and I look forward to the challenges it brings.

 

[TMFKAN64]

Well, it will certainly be starting over again at the bottom... but if that's what you are interested in doing, I don't see why you would have any problem with it. People change careers all the time, and 32 doesn't strike me as too old to do it.

 

[charng]

I can say that career changes are a common occurrence in the scientific community. It is not unusual for individuals to discover a new passion or interest later in life and decide to pursue a different career path. In your case, your experience in maintaining and building aircraft has given you valuable skills and knowledge in the engineering industry, which will be beneficial as you pursue a degree in engineering.

While starting over at 32 may seem daunting, it is important to remember that age is just a number and should not hold you back from pursuing your passion. In fact, your previous experience and maturity may give you an advantage in the field of engineering.

In terms of career opportunities, having a degree in engineering can open up many doors for you. With your background in the military and experience in the industry, you may be able to find opportunities in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or materials design. Additionally, the combination of a bachelor's and master's degree from a reputable university like Embry-Riddle will make you a highly competitive candidate in the job market.

The decision to pursue a second bachelor's degree or a combined BS/MS degree is a personal one and will depend on your financial situation and career goals. It is important to carefully consider your options and choose a program that aligns with your interests and career aspirations.

In summary, while starting over at 32 may seem like a risky move, it is a common occurrence in the scientific community and should not discourage you from pursuing your passion in engineering. With your experience and determination, I am confident that you will be successful in your new career path. Best of luck to you in your future endeavors.