Hey I'm almost 40. Also was an engineer for a living. Been teaching for a long time and always wanted to give 121 a shot. Well I finally did and I really enjoy it. If you don't get caught up with the politics and try to live in base, it's very doable. I was also torn with the A&P route, but ultimately decided I couldn't make that kind of time commitment. It is certainly not to late to get in the game. Realize that a lot of corporate jobs are more a who you know type of thing so start networking now while you work those ratings. Good Luck.