Career pivot to medical devices in my 50s, is it realistic or not?
I'm in my early 50s with 20 years of experience as a medical interpreter. That background has given me deep familiarity with clinical environments, medical terminology, physician communication styles, and how care teams actually operate across a wide range of specialties.
I also have some sales experience, and I'm fully open to roles like sales support or clinical specialist as an entry point into the industry. Driving and travel are not issues for me.
Also, I have a bachelor's and a master's degree.
A close friend, she means well, told me I have no realistic shot at even getting an interview because of my age. I'd love to hear from people actually working in this space:
- Is age really a barrier in medical device sales/clinical roles, or does relevant clinical exposure can help me offset it?
- Would my interpreter background is an asset (clinical credibility, communication skills, relationship-building) or will be ignored?
- Any advice on how to position myself, or what specific companies/segments that tend to value non-traditional backgrounds?
I'm looking for honest perspectives. I'd rather hear a hard truth now than chase something unrealistic. But I'm also not ready to give up without real data from people who've been in the industry. Thanks so much!