If you can afford it, get your ME Instrument and start time building as quickly as possible. At the same time, start applying to all the regional airlines. I was hired with 600SEL and 60ME. Commute Air and Silver are the bottom of the barrel but you will fly your butt off and get paid a little while you acquire enough time to be competitive for the majors.

Also, I am a career changer too. I am 40 yrs old and have been flying at the regionals for 5 years. Took what seemed to be alot of time money and effort but, I will be going to the majors soon.

Flying is my passion. I was making below poverty wages for 3 years but seldom had a bad day at work. If flying keeps calling you back, go follow your dream. When you love what you do, you will never work another day in your life again.