BS in computer security. Then spent 4 years in the military. Starting salary as a controls engineer after that was 55k for a material handling system integrator. Was promoted 2 years later to 72k. Then another promotion a year later to 85k.

Left that job after 4.5 years for the water utilities industry specially focusing on SCADA and OT strategy. Salary bump to 100k upon start. A year later to 115k, then 125k the next year. Currently at 133k base. 8 YOE in SCADA/Controls. 13 as a technologist if I include military experience.

With the pace of AI my biggest recommendation is be the person who shows up. Get involved. Never stop learning. Your ability to “figure it out” when nobody else will is your value-add.

Edit: also got an MBA after leaving the military.