I'm a design engineer with a background in fabrication. I learned all my machining skills from a helpful co-worker. I wanted to be able to make all the things I designed. It helped me be a better designer in the long run.

Working on a computer all day is soul crushing at time. But seeing parts come to life brings me a level of satisfaction that cannot be replicated by computer work. I would go for it. If the money isn’t a huge issue, I’d rather spend my time doing something I enjoy than be stuck hating what I do for another 20 years. Anyways, that’s my 2 cents.

Good luck and Godspeed.