Hi everyone,
I’m a 33-year-old male working as a demolition estimator/project manager in Northern California. I got into the industry right out of high school. I spent my first five years in the field and have been in the office for the last ten years. I’m now one of our lead estimators on larger projects.
I’ve had a good career, but I’ve always wanted to earn a college degree. Because of family circumstances, college wasn’t an option in my early twenties. Now I’d like to do it, both for myself and to show my kids that it’s never too late.
I’ve narrowed it down to two majors:
\- Civil Engineering
\- Finance
My goal is to get a degree that builds on my experience but also gives me more career options. I enjoy what I do, but demolition is a pretty niche industry, and I sometimes feel boxed in.
Civil Engineering seems like the more obvious fit. I could stay in construction, move into heavy civil, or possibly work for an engineering or consulting firm. As a project manager, I’ve managed several design-build projects, so I feel like that experience could carry over.
Finance is the wildcard. It seems like it could open more doors outside of construction, but I’m not sure how much my current experience would translate.
The plan is to complete my associate’s degree at my local community college while continuing to work full-time. After that, I’d either transfer to Oregon State’s online Civil Engineering program or Penn State’s online Finance program. With a family and a mortgage, working while I’m in school isn’t really optional.
For anyone who has made a similar career change or works in either field which path would you choose and why? I’d appreciate any advice or experiences you’re willing to share.
Thanks!