Transitioning From Mobile Development to Machine Learning: Should You Make the Switch at Age 32?

The decision to transition from one career path to another is not taken lightly, especially at a pivotal age like 32. You might be contemplating this change because you are not enjoying your work in mobile development or you are facing obstacles in earning the desired income. Before you make this life-changing decision, it is essential to reflect on several key questions that will help you make an informed choice.

Reflecting on Your Future

Long-term Goals: What do you want in the long term, 10 to 15 years from now? It could be a career that aligns with your personal values, one that provides financial stability, or a combination of both. Identify what would bring you lasting satisfaction, and this will guide your choices.

Initial Hesitation: Initially, you might feel hesitant due to a lack of skills, but once you start gaining mastery in a new field, you will find yourself enjoying it more. Think about how learning public speaking can transform your perspective and confidence.

Unique Strengths: What are your unique strengths that can help you stand out in your desired career path? Identify skills that you can apply to both mobile development and machine learning to leverage your existing expertise while expanding your capabilities.

Financial Prospects: Can you earn a decent income by learning machine learning? Consider the potential earnings and job opportunities in this field before making a decision. Remember, the transition won't happen overnight.

Alignment with Values: Ensure that your values align with your new career path. A mismatch can lead to dissatisfaction and burnout over time. It is crucial to choose a field that aligns with your personal beliefs and goals.

The Value of Diversification

Having knowledge in both mobile development and machine learning can be incredibly valuable. It showcases your adaptability and broad skill set, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. Embracing the cultural shift towards AI and integrating it into mobile applications can also open up new opportunities for innovation and creativity.

Boost Your Current Career

I would not recommend completely switching careers but rather augmenting your existing one with skills in machine learning. Start by learning the basics of AI and machine learning to complement your mobile development expertise. The introduction of AI into mobile applications is rapidly growing, and even seemingly minor apps are experiencing increased attention and hype (e.g., Prisma).

An Expert's Perspective

Here is what I would advise if I were in your position:

If you are proficient in mobile development and find yourself struggling, only then would I consider a career change. 'Struggling' should be a significant issue, not just a minor inconvenience like failing to make 70K annually (a figure that is generally possible with the right skills and dedication).

If you truly struggle and decide to change, it should be for a field that genuinely interests you, not just one that is trendy. Creating a bandwagon mentality for a career change without genuine passion can be detrimental.

Otherwise, I would stay in my current field, aiming to become the best possible mobile developer. Make sure your achievements and skills are widely recognized. Avoid jumping on bandwagons; they often lead to disappointment.

Consider these guidelines to help you make the right career decision for your individual circumstances.