I just landed a new job in a incrementally different career. I've been a computer programmer for 20 years, just got a job as a GIS (Geographical Information Systems) Analyst.

With more and more IT work being outsourced offshore, it seemed that moving into something like GIS, which has applications in so many areas (intel, space, agriculture, real estate, etc).

So those of you who've wondered if it's possible - yep, even at 43 you can start a new career.

congratulations,

i'm 20 years your junior, and i'm trying to be a career starter. I wanted to choose a path that i can devote 20 years of my life to mastery of that can also pay my way, but I don't know what that is. I don't know how to know what, because I don't want to squander my time on this earth..

that's my story. I think everyone has to go their own way in life. again, congratulations

Just an update. Still at my new job, and I love it. The commute is a bummer (about an hour each way), but the work is great and the enviroment is super (not like the poisonous place I left).

It's great to be doing something that other folks find important and useful. I'm happier with my work than I have been in years.

Congratulations LKS! I'm glad it's working out for you. I left a very secure postion seven years ago to be a partner in a startup company. It's had its ups and downs, but mostly I'm happy with it. I always went with the idea that career changes are fine until you are 45. After that, I think it's best to stay where you are if possible for the stability factor. I'm 47 now, so I guess I'm here to stay, unless some unbelievable opportunity comes up, or if we don't stay in business.

Just curious LKS, did your age play any role in your decision to move? Would you have stayed where you were, if you were 10 years older? Have there been any negatives to being the "new guy" at age 43? It seems to me that your industry pretty much worships all things youthful.

I wish you continued success!

Believe it or not, I'm the youngest in my office. I agree that youthfulness is almost worshipped in technology, but there is a strong demand for experience as well. I think that those in their late 30s/early 40s may actually have a slight advantage in the market today.

I really don't know if I would have jumped if I was older, but I'm leaning towards "no". At 53, I'd be on the coast down towards retirement or semi-retirement, and probably wouldn't want the hassles that come with a new career.

LKS

Keep us updated! Sounds like things are looking up for you. Everything happens for a reason. Sounds like this new career was supposed to happen. I wish you only the best. And hope to one day have the programing skills you probably have.

CJ, I had a thought this morning driving into work. Here's my attempt to express it.

Programming is a lot like other creative endevors, like writing or art. You take an idea and put it in a physical form. The problem with programming is that your work is very, very transitory.

I've been a programmer for 20 years, and most of what I've written has been lost forever, written for machines or software that no longer exist. It's actually kind of depressing.

I've enjoyed programming, I just wish that my work had a longer shelf life. That's one reason I left programming and now do geography stuff, like make maps. Much more permanence in paper than in magnetic media.

So, if you keep working on programming, just keep that in mind and do something (in addition) that has some longevity to it.

Coming up on a year into the new career, and things are going well.

The commute is a bit long, but the job rocks.

My advise to anyone looking to switch careers continues to be to go for it. If you have reached the peak in your current job, look for new challenges. It is risky and all, but the potential rewards are pretty high. Remember that risk is generally proportional with rewards (well, not always, but you get the idea).

It sure beats getting a convertable and a mistress for keeping your groove on, IMHO.

"It sure beats getting a convertable and a mistress for keeping your groove on, IMHO."

Not sure I follow you. WTF???

If your job sucks, you will look for satifaction in other ways - the classic mid-life crisis.

I took another tack - I changed careers. No expensive cars, no messy divorce.

I get excited about work again, and that in turn transfers over to the rest of my life.

Understand?

Capice.

Thought that maybe you had an offer of the hot woman and a convertible.

Wait a minute, I drive a convertible...

The commute may suck, but its good that you look at the positives as offsets.

My ride is just under 2 hours... each way. So, yeah, I can relate. But the job and salary are worth it. And I work 7-4, which leaves me time for Scouts and Martial Arts. Plus, I've managed to get a pretty routine 1 day/week work-at-home day, so its definitely a keeper.

Working at home on what, Porno Chuck?? ] :O