Pros and cons for a new career path

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the considerations of pursuing a new career path in engineering or electronics technology, particularly for someone returning to education later in life. Participants share personal experiences and insights regarding community college programs, age-related challenges, and the importance of internships in the engineering field.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant shares their background and interest in returning to math and science, considering two educational paths: an engineering transfer program and a two-year degree in electronics technology.
  • Another participant expresses skepticism about the value of a community college electronics technology degree, citing low completion rates and limited job opportunities in the field.
  • A participant emphasizes the importance of full-time commitment to succeed in engineering, particularly for securing internships and networking opportunities.
  • One participant mentions their intention to focus on completing a full engineering degree rather than settling for a shorter program.
  • Another participant warns about potential age bias in the job market and stresses the necessity of internships to connect with employers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the value of community college programs, particularly in electronics technology, and the necessity of full-time study for success in engineering. There is no consensus on the best path forward, as opinions vary regarding the effectiveness and opportunities associated with each educational option.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the challenges of balancing part-time education with work and the implications of age in the job market, but do not resolve these issues. The discussion reflects a range of personal experiences and perspectives without definitive conclusions.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering a career change to engineering or electronics technology, especially those returning to education later in life, may find the shared experiences and insights relevant.

TJinSC
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Hi everyone. A little background on me. I'm just shy of my 42nd birthday with only about a semester of college courses under my belt, and that was just the starter classes thru the University of Phoenix. Way back in high school math and science were my favorite classes up until a bad experience with a move kept me from continuing with my advanced bio. Fast forward I found a decent paying job after graduation and after 20 years I'm no better off than when I was 20.

Now I'm wanting to get back to what I loved back then. Our community college offers two different programs of study. First being an engineering transfer that would take a big bite out of the price of the first two years vs the four year university. Second is a career focused two year degree in electronics technology.

Having to go to school part time I'm looking at at least twice the time to complete. If I go the two year way I'm thinking I can get a job in the industry and go back to finish the engineering courses. Downside is that most of the courses in the career program don't match the transfer and I'm left with another year in the community college before transfer. Staying in school for the EE degree will put me nearly or over 50 years old before I can start competing for jobs against 20 something's.

Anybody's personal experience would be very welcomed. Along with any insight to other things I may be missing. Thank you in advance,

Tj
 
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I applaud your efforts! Good luck! It's your life, forget the templates.
 
I don't see any value in a community college electronics technology degree or certificate. My local community colleges have the same thing and they are abysmal. Less than 10% completion rate and only one or two job openings in the state every year. There really isn't much need for low skilled electronics technicians.

I'm also at a community college taking pre-reqs for an engineering degree, looking to compete with people half my age when I graduate. One of the best parts of an engineering degree is the internship. To succeed in EE I think you have to give up the idea of going part time. You need to be available more than full time to do your internship, get the most out of your studies and connect/network with your fellow students and professors. Without that I suspect you will have few career options after getting your BSEE.
 
Maybe/hopefully by the time I complete my community college studies I can focus full time. I've been working hard at getting my expenses down to take that stress off me. I've pretty much decided to go for the full degree, I won't be happy settling for anything less. Thanks for the input and good luck with your studies and career.
 
You may have some problems with age bias so I cannot stress the importance of an internship enough. Get out there and get to know your potential employers!
 

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