Should I Make a Career Change to Electrical Engineering

[inDenial]

I have a BSEE and have my EIT. I currently own an electrical contracting company that is very sucessful but I am not excited to do what I do anymore. I am happiest when I am doing a design / build project or a lighting design project. I am now considering moving on in my career. I have considerable experience in project management and design. I know that the folks in this forum my not like design / build, however I have designed 20 some projects ranging from 10K - 1mil. When I say design, I mean that I have performed all aspects of the electrical design from conception to CAD. The only thing that I did not do was final review and stamping by a PE, this is done by a PE consultant that I hire. I know that I have the skills to be a entry level to mid level EIT on my way to a PE.

My question is do you think that a firm will hire me? I have extensive experience but it is real world construction, not pure design. I have the degree and EIT but I graduated in 1998. The specific industry that I am interested in is electrical design for building systems. Any comment are appreciated.

 

[keepinitcool]

The only things I can say are that it sounds like you have the experience. One thing I noticed in the general industry is that LED lighting is more and more popular, as are lighting control systems, due to energy saving demands. I would suspect knowledge of implementing these features and systems would make you attractive to certain companies.

 

[Hoagie]

You're employable. You have field experience, an EIT and a degree. The only problem for you will be taking a pay cuy. I'm guessing you will start somewhere between $50-65K with benefits.

If you're making good money, stay with it. God knows the money sucks in consulting. But, if you really want a PE...

Good luck.

 

[steellion]

If you're eligible to take the PE, go for it. Having "PE" attached to your name will definitely increase your employability and should positively affect your starting salary.

I think you're employable now with all of your experience, just know that being an EIT in your mid-30's (presumably) is something you'll have to explain to the hiring manager why you never got the PE.