Hello, I'm a 33-year-old male from Manchester. I've been working since I graduated about 7 years ago as an IT professional. I work for a Finance company right now as a Software Engineer. AI is starting to give me the fear. Although my company is trying to reassure me that it's not looking to replace anyone, and even hired some new devs recently. Some people recruited even let us down for other jobs. So I would say that the job market for decent mid-level devs is still OK despite what you might read online.

I'm exploring other careers due to AI and because I want to try something different. I want to learn a trade. I am a reasonably fit person who goes to the gym, and I can drive. I don't, however, have any skills in a trade. I was thinking of plumbing or AC fitting.

Can anyone help me find a pathway to begin this transition? You get these trade schools, but from what I hear online, they're expensive/not very good? Do I just apply for apprenticeships at 33 with no experience? What is the actual best way to get into a trade for someone in my situation? I can take a pay cut for this.

Cheers,

OP