Hello Gregg, simply put most employers that I know are more concerned with an individuals attitude, work ethic, are they drug and alcohol free? and are they willing to listen and learn. Then they will usually give you a shot to see where your skills are at and are you teachable in the ways of their work. You're already coming in with many outside skills that may indirectly make you a more valuable hand, it sounds as though you're no stranger to the field and construction sites and many welding contractors that you may run into will appreciate that sort of insight. If you're willing and have the desire, I would certainly suggest to you to go for it. There are many others on the forum that will have lots of good advice for you as well. Best of luck and regards, aevald

Hey Gregg,
I believe aevald really indicated the primary criteria for any employee who is evaluating a career change. Any worthwhile employer who seeks quality employees who will benefit their operation would not let age be a factor. Generally, most companies(management), and I speak of the "smart" companies(management), who have a steady growth with their respective operation, are always in need of employees who will enhance their operation, and thus the bottom line....PROFIT. I made so many moves throughout my career, it would take 4-5 pages on a resume to list. Each place though, was a stepping stone towards a knowledge base that enhanced my opportunity for a better position/wage and pursue the type of work I relish. I have been in production manufacturing for 43+ years and I truly enjoy this arena. I love welding and the feel of metal and the ability to create a "better way" or "enhancement" to produce a product more efficiently and more profitably. The company I now work for, this last 8 years, I got when I was 55. I simply showed them my qualifications, the ability to learn their operation and enhance their production, and increase their profitability. Don't let your age give you a feeling that you're not in demand.....solid work ethics, the 'hunger" to learn, the experience level you have, and the honor to give 8hrs work for 8hrs pay will land you that job. Simply show the employer you would be a benefit to their company and you can learn anything they dish out. Even to this day, I still look....believe it or not. Mainly as a challenge to myself. I have had offers.....well, more like insults as far as experience/knowledge and wage offer. I have taken some side work to help out a few companies on a limited basis and on MY terms. Works quite nicely...... Anyway, don't give up.....if a company will not hire you....simply tell them it's their loss. Good luck......Keep us informed how you fare....Denny

Gregg,
Welcome aboard It is never to late to start and I for one would welcome the experience that you would have to offer, welding is a skill that can be taught ,work ethic and life experience cannot. "Head down ass-up" is all it takes. I would not worry about the pay cut to much as an examble I hired a guy much like yourself on my last job knew didly about weld but could rig,lay-out and out work most of the so called tradesmen that were on the job. He was worth full rate just for his past experience and the other skills he brought to the job.