Is 50 too old for a new career?

peter.s · Feb 1, 2019

Hi, I’m new here

I’ve been reading this forum and researching trade courses for some time now because I’m wanting to make a career change. I have not worked in the industry before, but I am multi-skilled and have no doubt that I have the capacity to make a good electrician… but the trouble is, I will be turning 50 in a few months.

At first I thought I could just do a C&G 2365 and then get a job and quickly qualify as an Electrician… But in reality I think it will be a lot more challenging to find work at my age. And if I did find a job, I would be working as an underling for several years before gaining my qualifications and upping my wage.

I’m keen to hear some honest opinions from the professionals. Would I be wasting my time and money to get trained up? And would any firm employ a fifty-year-old novice?

Starjack · Feb 2, 2019

FatAlan said:
No, 55 year old recently retired police officer who, very luckily would not be reliant on earning a high wage, is fit and well (passed higher level annual fitness test for shield trained riot officers), very interested and absorbed by the electrician trade, has own tools, can get out of bed in the morning and would do what I’m told to do without looking at my phone every 30 seconds. Still I understand some people prefer younger men

I have yet to meet a Rozzer that would stand there and allow someone else to tell them what to do..

MJPD29 · Feb 2, 2019

Definetly not, if anything mature apprentices can be better and more reliable. My advice is to go for it there will always be someone willing to help you learn and give you the chance to get experience

plugsandsparks · Feb 2, 2019

I am 56 , started my company at 48 after being out of this trade for 25 years, added Gas and FGas at 50 yrs old, i dont believe age is a factor to learning at all, being set in your ways is a state of mind not a medical condition, lol.
I suppose i am at the opposite end , i would not employ anyone under 30, they are set in their ways (bloody social media) /irony/ and dont like my music.
No issue with Sjacks position but i wager it will change as he gets older and realises nothing actually happens at 50 except you are wiser and more emotionally mature....

FatAlan · Feb 2, 2019

Starjack said:
I have yet to meet a Rozzer that would stand there and allow someone else to tell them what to do..

Thing is when you sign up to the filth you say goodbye to a lot of freedom. Bit like the armed forces. You have to and get very used to obeying lawful orders, work where you are told, recall to duty when required etc etc. A bit like being married.

If you are in a managerial position running a company I’m sure you expect your employees to do what you tell them to do?

Matt RIchards · Feb 2, 2019

I'm in a somewhat similar position - 48, ex-Army officer, recently completed a DI cse - however I am a kept man (wife's career going well) and have an army pension so don't need to earn big money but need to be flexible around my kids (still young and at school).

I found the course easy in respect that my attitude to learning was (in my opinion) better than the youngsters and I took a measured approach to most practical tasks, as well as my maths being being good. However I am also mature/sensible enough to realise that I need practical experience before I can either go it alone or work for someone for decent money; luckily I have an electrician friend who I am working for (mostly for free) in order to gain enough experience in order that I can set up on my own (maybe 6 months).

So in summary it is possible but be prepared to earn little or no money at the start - if money is a big issue then you need to plan for this carefully (maybe night school etc whilst still working and move across when you are ready). But, as others have said, how fit are you? Do you want to be straining you knees/back/etc. in your 50s/60s? You seem sensible enough to be able to take direction from those younger than you as well so I doubt that you will have any issues on the job.

Long-winded and rambling reply but yes it is possible - good luck if you go for it.

telectrix · Feb 2, 2019

excellent post, Matt. could not have put it better myself ( either before or asfter beer

).

Starjack · Feb 2, 2019

Good God, it's like cocoon in here, I keep getting the urge to buy some boiled sweets and earl grey.
Is every mature trainee on here either a Rozzer or Rambo.
Why not sit at home pampering yourselves on your disgracefully fat pensions, while really old people ( over 70 ) struggle on a pittance.
Make way for the younger generation, it's not their fault that you all couldn't hack it at your other jobs and have now decided to be in the best trade around.

Starjack · Feb 2, 2019

Why the dislike @Pete999 dont tell me that's your age at the end of your name, or is it code to let people know you're an ex Rozzer as well.

Pete999 · Feb 2, 2019

Starjack said:
Why the dislike @Pete999 dont tell me that's your age at the end of your name, or is it code to let people know you're an ex Rozzer as well.

No not an ex anything.

Starjack · Feb 2, 2019

So how old are you Pete, while everyone is disclosing ages.

telectrix · Feb 2, 2019

Starjack said:
So how old are you Pete, while everyone is disclosing ages.

i could tell you, but then i'd have to kill you.

.

Starjack · Feb 2, 2019

telectrix said:
i could tell you, but then i'd have to kill you. .

Well if you do then be sure to bring a flask and some sandwiches because you will no doubt be in a very long queue.

Starjack · Feb 2, 2019

I just think ive hit a few nerves thats all.
Everything I've said since j joined as been met equal like and dislike, I've only said what is true but it would seem that some members can't handle the truth.

Pete999 · Feb 2, 2019

Starjack said:
So how old are you Pete, while everyone is disclosing ages.

Old enough

Pete999 · Feb 2, 2019

Starjack said:
I just think ive hit a few nerves thats all.
Everything I've said since j joined as been met equal like and dislike, I've only said what is true but it would seem that some members can't handle the truth.

To whom are you directing this comment to Starjack?

Starjack · Feb 2, 2019

Pete999 said:
Old enough

Why have you suddenly gone all shy, you can't be over 50 or you would have a yellow trainee badge.

Starjack · Feb 2, 2019

It was in reply to Telectrix comment above mine, but it's for anyone and everyone really, yes I may be a bit blunt at times but that's how I've got to my level at my age.
I will be retired by 50 with a fat bank account that I've earned.

westward10 · Feb 2, 2019

My birthday last Thursday, 54 and have a fat bank account

Ian1981 · Feb 2, 2019

westward10 said:
My birthday last Thursday, 54 and have a fat bank account

Well you have got the colour yellow in your name and badge

Ian1981 · Feb 2, 2019

deleted double post

Moley · Feb 2, 2019

westward10 said:
My birthday last Thursday, 54 and have a fat bank account

I'll be 57 in a couple of weeks and I have a fat wife

Pete999 · Feb 2, 2019

Starjack said:
Why have you suddenly gone all shy, you can't be over 50 or you would have a yellow trainee badge.

You have guessed wrong there Mate.

Pete999 · Feb 2, 2019

Starjack said:
It was in reply to Telectrix comment above mine, but it's for anyone and everyone really, yes I may be a bit blunt at times but that's how I've got to my level at my age.
I will be retired by 50 with a fat bank account that I've earned.

And what level would that be, if I maybe so bold? Crikey under 50, I could be your Dad, nah don't bear thinking about.

Rpa07 · Feb 2, 2019

westward10 said:
My birthday last Thursday, 54 and have a fat bank account

[ElectriciansForums.net] Is 50 too old for a new career?

And a pair of shoes to celebrate every one of those years - you really should draw those curtains!

Starjack · Feb 2, 2019

westward10 said:
My birthday last Thursday, 54 and have a fat bank account

Well happy birthday firstly.
Are you now retired and enjoying your money.

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