Hi everyone. I'm currently studying for a degree in computer science at a community college. I planned to transfer to a university for the degree, but I think I'm having second thoughts. After seeing the general sentiment about the job market for software development, as well as the reduced need for actual human programmers due to AI, I feel discouraged from spending money on getting a degree that may not even be used. I also don't think I want to turn a hobby into a job.
I'm a few semesters in at community college at this point, and I'm not sure if I would need to stay here longer if I choose to switch or not. I don't know if I still need to complete general ed classes before going to an aviation tech school. Is it possible to just apply straight into school for this? How would this work?
I have no formal or documented training/experience in mechanics work, but I do sometimes work on cars with my brother. I also know the fundementals of how a turbine engine works (I wanted to make one in highschool but didn't have the tools or materials for it) so thats something at least. Still, I want to go to school to learn more than just the fundementals. I have a genuine interest in aircraft, but don't want to actually fly and be a pilot.
Should I switch to this or not?
A few more questions:
How is the job market for this field, and is it easier to get in? Especially compared to software development?
Does this job require you to work extra outside of work hours, like in your home, for example, or does your work end when your shift ends?
Does this job require you to move constantly locally (I'm in SoCal), or do you work in one spot for most of your position?
Which type of school would I need to go to, and what would it include?
Finally, this is a weird question, but I'm barely in my 20s, 2 years out of highschool. My voice is higher than usual for a male. I keep my curly hair short to medium length. I tend to naturally submit to anyone with authority. I don't look like a teenager (I think), but I still look slightly boyish and younger, and I don't look as masculine as someone who I would imagine being in a trade. Based on your experiences, are there any type of prejudices going on when it comes to this, either in the workplace or when looking for a job? Do older graduates tend to get hired more easily than younger graduates?
Thank you in advance.