FAQ
TL;DR: At 39, a three‑year EE pivot is feasible; one engineer at 58 says, "Good companies look for good people willing to work hard and keep learning." Start working in solar install or technician roles while you take classes. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678757]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps service members and career‑changers map fast, low‑risk pathways into electrical and renewable‑energy work.
Quick Facts
- Entry ramps: solar installer, maintenance tech, or electrician; start classes while working. Some employers co-fund tuition. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678750]
- Math ramp: test aptitude at community college; target up through Calculus II within ~18 months if possible. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678758]
- Certifications: not required to start at many firms; if needed, employers often pay after hire. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678757]
- Technician bridge: AutoCAD/layout roles can pay well; strong techs can move into engineering. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678757]
- Motivation and outlook: Solar is rapidly growing and transforming power; age is not a blocker when skills show. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678751]
Am I too old to start electrical engineering at 39?
No. Focus on skills, curiosity, and teamwork. A contributor highlighted solar’s growth and said, “Don’t worry about your age; your skills and talents will shine.” Another engineer remained effective at 58 through continuous learning. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678751]
What’s a practical first step into renewables without a degree?
Start as a solar installer, maintenance tech, or electrician. Take basic electronics and begin degree classes part‑time. If you show aptitude, some employers contribute to tuition. Try work‑study to validate fit before a full academic leap. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678750]
Should I work first or finish a degree before applying?
Work in an entry role while starting classes. You’ll learn the workflow, gain income, and confirm direction. This path also signals initiative and may unlock tuition support. It reduces risk versus pausing everything for school. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678750]
Do I need certifications to get hired?
Not typically for entry. “I don’t recommend any certifications.” If a company requires one, it often pays after hiring. Prioritize learning, projects, and adaptability over alphabet soup. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678757]
How much math do I need, and what if I hit a wall?
Aim through Calculus II. One poster planned that before retiring, which set a clear bar. Edge case: if pre‑Calculus or Calculus I is a major struggle, consider a technician path first, then bridge later. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678758]
Is the technician or AutoCAD route a good bridge into EE?
Yes. Short courses can place you into technician or layout roles quickly. One engineer noted layout designers out‑earned many engineers and that techs can move into engineering with aptitude and desire. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678757]
How can I test interest before committing three years of school?
Enroll in community‑college math to gauge aptitude. Add a photovoltaic installer course and an electricians or electronics class. This gives hands‑on validation within your remaining pre‑retirement timeline. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678753]
Is solar and home renewables a solid direction?
Yes. Solar is a rapidly growing field reshaping a legacy power industry. Passion drives persistence, which matters in a mid‑career pivot. “You are likely to do well at what you love to do.” [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678751]
How do I stay employable as an older engineer or tech?
Adopt a learning habit: read books and articles, practice software, and attend seminars. One 58‑year‑old engineer reported this kept opportunities open while others’ skills fell behind. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678757]
Can employers help pay for school while I work?
Yes. If you show aptitude and interest, employers may cover part of your education. Combine on‑the‑job learning with targeted classes to accelerate progress affordably. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678750]
What’s a simple three‑step plan to pivot from the military into EE/solar?
- Start community‑college math and a PV installer course to validate fit.
- Take an entry role (installer, tech, or electrician) to earn while learning.
- Enroll in degree classes; accept employer tuition help if offered.
[Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678753]
How long should I plan before the full‑time switch?
Use your remaining pre‑retirement window to sample courses and prep math. One poster targeted Calculus II within about 18 months, then moved into full‑time study. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678753]
Which tools or platforms should I learn first?
AutoCAD or similar CAD tools help for drafting and layout roles. Pair that with basic electronics coursework to build intuition for circuits used in solar and controls work. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678749]
I’m in the marine industry—can I transition to mainstream electrical engineering?
Yes. Follow the same playbook: add coursework, target technician or layout roles, and keep learning. Strong technicians can move into engineering roles when they demonstrate aptitude and drive. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678757]
How do I spot off‑topic or promotional distractions while researching?
Be cautious with unsolicited vendor pitches. Stick to learning resources and roles aligned with your plan. Flag unrelated promotions as they can waste time during a tight transition. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #21678760]
