[solardev]

Probably some sort of actual engineering in the physical world (like renewables). But I'm terrible at math, so probably would've washed out early lol. I'm actually trying to get into an engineering program now, but I don't think I can afford to spend another 6-7 years of my life chasing that =/ Might have to choose something else instead.

[RSHEPP]

I am a mechanical engineer turned software engineer. Had a great job as a test engineer, hands on and wrote test software. I also made half of what I make now as a software engineer, with abysmal benefits. I am thankful for all the hands on skills I learned in those 3 years, but the software life is so much better for me personally.

[solardev]

Thank you for the perspective! I don't think any other regular job would be as cushy as software engineering, but that's ok with me. Software seems ridiculously overpaid to me, and it actually kinda rubs my work ethic the wrong way. I frequently hear of (and see) people working only a few days a week but making bank... that doesn't inspire me, it just saddens me that society is wasting that kind of money. (Not saying you're like that, just some of the stories/people I know.)

Anyway, personally, I am particularly interested in civil infrastructure engineering. I never made all that much as a software person anyway (capped out at $100k after 10+ years of full-time work, 20 years of experience), and I don't have kids or a mortgage. I just want the opportunity to do something more meaningful and contribute to society more.

[MajimasEyepatch]

If you're afraid of AI, I have bad news: it's just as capable of taking those jobs as it is of taking software engineering jobs, or any other white-collar job.

[solardev]

I'm not "afraid" of AI per se... the Borg have been my dream since childhood, lol. I look forward to it, just worried about the huge displacements it will have under our current hypercapitalistic system with a weak government and poor safety nets. It's gonna hurt, regardless of what I personally do for work :(