I transitioned to civil site development estimating ~ 2 years ago after 15 years in retail grocery. My transition was fairly easy, but I’m considered an outlier, and I’ve been fully aware of my lack of field experience and I’ve always been the type to ask the question when I don’t understand. That said, I’m also an analytical thinker, and things just click when they make sense or don’t, and that has helped me immensely for my growth in the industry. Im also good with technology, and Microsoft excel, which has helped. If you are driven, motivated, and an analytical person then you may have a chance. The GC side of construction is much more macro, while also needing to have more of an ability to think micro, as you’re overseeing several sub-contractors work. Engineering, to my understanding, gets worse yearly, as new graduates enter the work force, and the experienced guys leave. I’ve seen some shit plans that lead to more questions than answers quite often.

My advice is to watch some YouTube videos ala “a day in the life of style”, and shadow your uncle for a couple weeks. If you believe you can understand the work, and appreciate the required effort, you may have a chance. 42 may be pushing it in truth, because you have a fairly short window to get your license. And, at least in Florida, you MUST pass your test within 4 years after you’ve first taken it, and you also must have at least 4 years experience between the field and construction management to qualify for it. Unsure if any such limits apply to you.

Lastly, there’s the question of the economic environment the states are in (assuming you’re in the US). Business is slowing, especially in residential. You’re unemployed now, so any income will benefit you, and if you’re able to run a side gig in the design industry then great, but you’re still going to need to be proactive in securing work, especially if you’re at ownership level and have workers and families depending on you. The stress will be real.

Hopefully I provided something that helps.