I was also 43 and a former teacher when I started full time flight training (although I had worked as an electrician for a couple years after quitting teaching). I tried starting out at a part 61 and still working, but soon ended up deciding that would take way longer and end up costing more in the long run. I went to Sling Pilot Academy near LAX and got all my ratings except multi, but that was just because I used up my hours before finishing multi.

I then instructed at a mom and pop part 61 school for about six months, did aerial survey for a summer, and flew SIC in a Citation XL for a year. That’s how I got my 1500. Most of the people in my ATP-CTP class instructed to 1500, and a few did survey, military, or part 135 like me. All these options have their strengths and weaknesses but I personally feel much more confident having the part 135 experience and prior turbine time — I’m not saying I’ma better pilot, just personally more confident than before I did that flying.

You mentioned Aeroguard, and I see they have a tuition reimbursement program with Skywest. Sling Pilot Academy is probably about 15 grand cheaper than ATP but only has SoCal locations. I highly recommend an accelerated program, partly because of my experience and partly because of how important timing and seniority is — get in while they’re still hiring like crazy!

Good luck!