Seriously considering a career change at 39!

[Rick_1976]

Hi all. Would massively appreciate any advice that anyone would be good enough to give. I have worked in an I.T. office based job for the last 19 years and am seriously looking at making the move and re-training as a plumber.

Now whilst this clearly doesn't qualify me as being the perfect candidate for plumbing I've always been handy and have fitted a couple of kitchens and bathrooms and all manner of things around the house. I'm based in the northwest and would appreciate any advice on how to get into the industry. I've had a look at some courses and am pretty certain the high intensity courses where you can become a trained plumber in 8 weeks are pie in the sky. It seems you're looking at a couple of years and need practical experience on the job with someone who is willing to spend the time with you before getting your NVQ Level 2 or 3. I've been looking at British Gas for the last 2 years but the apprentice opportunities have not surfaced in that time and speaking to people in the industry it doesn't sound like the best way to go anyway!

Has anyone experience of changing career at 39 and is it as daunting as it appears and are the rewards worth it?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[lame plumber]

one of few who did it in 40s, did up houses and moved on, then hotel into flats then Mr Brown buggered it all up, so trained at local college in plumbing, whilst doing anything available be it painting small plumbing jobs etc, converted to gas, then oil and specialised in oil n range cookers to earn a bit more. As I am on my own I dont earn a fortune or want to, house paid off and have some flats to rent. But your body gives up before you do, knackered knees, wrist and back mean I avoid installs if possible as it all hurts too much now. Still keen on plumbing ?

 

[townfanjon]

I was late into this job, early 40's , big decision , did the whole college thing , but never ever tried to get a job ,I think thats where you will struggle pal , to go straight into self-employment and starting up a business is FECING hard , but I did it so anybody can lol . Good luck in what ever you decide

 

[lame plumber]

Think twice before you did anything.am having poor knowledge in that,,,,sorry i can't give any suggestion.

anyone got a spare Babel fish?

 

[Howsie]

Do what makes you happy, never be afraid to try something new.

 

[Rickster123]

Do what makes you happy, never be afraid to try something new.

Unless it involves hot wax and the words back, sack and crack.

 

[Howsie]

Unless it involves hot wax and the words back, sack and crack.

If it makes you happy... not brings tears to your eyes (or eye)!

 

[SimonG]

Start the fitness training. Takes a toll.

 

[rpm]

Unless it involves hot wax and the words back, sack and crack.

Pray do tell, are you standing up or sitting down whilst you type tonight? lol

 

[SimonG]

Prone

 

[Rickster123]

Pray do tell, are you standing up or sitting down whilst you type tonight? lol

Just getting my body "beach ready"

 

[Howsie]

Just getting my body "beach ready"

Beach as in Ball?

 

[lame plumber]

Just getting my body "beach ready"

you been wearing your granny's girdle again?

 

[Rickster123]

you been wearing your granny's girdle again?

Only on a Friday when Kate's at the shops...

 

[lame plumber]

Only on a Friday when Kate's at the shops...

Only croppie will want those pictures!

 

[Dotty]

anyone got a spare Babel fish?

No. But I do know where my towel is....

 

[Dotty]

Just getting my body "beach ready"

you been wearing your granny's girdle again?

Only on a Friday when Kate's at the shops...

Only croppie will want those pictures!

So I collect pictures of freak shows........

 

[monstratman]

Go for it. I went from office management to going on the tools (early 30's).

Best decision I've ever made.