What do you do if you're a Building Design professional looking for a late career change?

Consider seeking guidance from career counselors or mentors, researching alternative professions aligned with your interests, and exploring part-time or freelance opportunities to gain experience in new fields.

Participate in relevant industry expo, build network with professional already in the field, understanad dynamics of market and develop software skills to remain in the industry duto rapid change in the technology.

I believe in starting by identifying transferable skills and exploring related fields like real estate development, construction management, urban planning, or sustainable design consulting. Your expertise in project management and technical design is valuable. Consider further education or certifications to fill skill gaps. Networking is crucial: join professional associations, attend industry events, and connect with former colleagues. Seek mentorship from those who have transitioned successfully. Be prepared to start in a role that builds experience and credibility, even if it means a temporary step back in seniority or salary.

I’m not an HR or career counselor type person, rather a career long pre-construction professional. Over my wonderful career encountered numerous design professionals who made the career change in to building related paths. Be it general contracting, owner consultant, product rep., professional trade contracting, etc. This is a natural and logical path which changes the current work environment into a related field while retaining preexisting industry knowledge, merely applying the same from a different perspective, position, responsibility, and authority. While often times retaining much of your existing industry network, with far less transitioning and training challenges. Good luck

Familiar yourself with the latest research & requirements from FGI! The center for Health design(CHD) is an excellent resource and is also including the current AI opportunities.

Staying current with industry trends, learn new software or gain certifications relevant to your desired field. Look for courses or workshops that can bridge the gap.

Even late in your career, find a mentor in the space you are considering. Be honest with them about your goals, ask them their opinions, and listen. Ask them who else you should meet with.

Connect with professionals in the field you're interested in, attend industry events. These connections can lead to job opportunities and provide mentorship as you navigate your career transition.

Change careers, but build trust first. In addition to my education, my career is formed by successful professional relationships. Education is the soil of the development site, but the foundations are the trusted colleagues. As my interests and understanding grow in the Building and Design fields, my core attitude of solving problems in the built environment grows. That attitude is the introduction to my network. At some point, the relationships start directing my career. I am interested in the input of the landscape architect, but more cost/quality balances. The engineer has ways to get the right solution, but sometimes we need them to trust our commitment to quality. My partners need to trust me to follow my career with me.

Consider volunteering, This can provide hands-on experience and demonstrate your commitment to potential employers. Volunteering can lead to professional connections and even job offers if you prove yourself to be a valuable asset to an organization or project.