is this a bad idea? considering a career change

[sammyg2]

The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.
Unless Chuck Norris was there, then it's all red with blood.

[Seahawk]

Very interesting thread, Kroggers.

One of the jobs I had when I was a naval officer was as a "detailer": meaning I managed the careers of other naval officers, trying to match their desires with available billets, etc. A little known fact is that US naval officers rotate jobs every two to three years, between going to sea and "land" jobs.

It was an interesting job...I spent hours on the phone with the folks I helped (about 400), as much counselor, Priest and Rabbi as anything. I spent 18 months trying to figure out what really talented, thoughtful people wanted to do next with their lives, often involving a move, selling a house, kids to new schools, spouse having to look for work, etc.

I was the Aerospace Engineering Duty Officer detailer, which encompassed flight test, program management, engineering, depot level repair of aircraft, space jobs, at sea jobs, overseas billets, etc. Lots of choices.

What I found out was much different than what I anticipated going into the job: Most of the guys and gals I detailed wanted to make it to 20 years so they could have a retirement. That was central.

Second was lifestyle, family. Many folks were willing to take jobs that were not "fast track" for personal happiness and family. This really surprised me.

Third was generally job related, matching individual skills with available jobs, the easy part.

Given all that as background, I feel you are way ahead for a few reasons: You like to plan, are planning and your time line is reasonable.

I used to tell the folks I was detailing that "options", the ability to create choices based on the next three years was key: Meaning, the next job should prepare you for the job after, etc., create a series of expanding opportunities both professionally and personally. Build a solid foundation of skill sets for your resume and beyond (Toy Story nod).

My recommendation is one I always gave to my folks: If you think you want to go do a specific job, change your career path, go talk to folks who are in the business now. Get current info from players in the field. Everybody likes to talk about what they do.

In your planning, include a few face to face trips, lots of phone calls and a willingness to engage. Include your family.

You'll do well.

[pwd72s]

well, congrats on realizing the 39 is indeed "mid life". But changing careers? In this current high unemployment job market? Tough decision.

Perhaps send resumes out to well established aftermarket firms...edelbrock, MSD, etc. See if you get any feedback?

Still, be prepared for a pay cut. Are you willing to do that?

[Kroggers]

Lots of interesting discussions here, and 100% good advice and suggestions.

Paul (Seahawk), you seam to have read and actually taken on-board what I have written and where I am heading.

Yes, this is indeed a three year plan with the full support from my wife. She has seen how depressed I have been for the last year or so and and just like me feels that we spend so much time at work, we should at least have the ability to enjoy it and feel like wanting to get up and go to work in the morning. Having a job you enjoy and take pride in makes you a better person at home as well - no baggage to bring home to the dinner table. That is how we see it anyway...

My hobby is my racing and working on the 911 - I do not want to make this my job as it will destroy the special feeling I get from the cars. What I have done is look at the skills, education and experience I have along with things that interest me, and tried to see where these can be put to best use and give me pride in my day job at the same time.

Will I hand in my notice now - No Way! and that was not what I was suggesting. I am trying to build an exit strategy and looking to see where that next step will take me.

Rick V on page 1 was very helpful and gave direct input to my thoughts based on his experience in the industry he has worked in for years and I have considered as a possible next step. based on his comments, I am realizing that I might have the ability to do the job, but the job might not be there for me to do

Originally Posted by pwd72s

Still, be prepared for a pay cut. Are you willing to do that?

Yes we are...

Like I said, this is step one, and I really appreciate your views and input - thank you