Considering a Career Change

[Michal Kolenda]

Hi all! I recently was notified I'd be getting laid off after Labor Day, which sort of works out for me. I'm 27 and I've been thinking about changing my career direction and this is a good opportunity to try something new. 

A little background: I graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering and have been working as a project manager for a general contractor for about last 4 years. Most of my projects were college dorm renovations (50 - 100+ units) and building mechanical upgrades. After starting that job, I started saving money as fast as possible to house hack and renovate a 3 flat in Chicago. I genuinely enjoy doing carpentry and minor plumbing/electric, so I did much of the work myself. Now I'm fully rented, which covers my mortgage and close to all expenses, so mission accomplished. 

I would really like to hear some other avenues I could explore. I really did enjoy working construction management, the experience and knowledge gained from so many different commercial projects can't be beat, but the job was very consuming. I still think about using my degree and going towards the engineering route, but I have a feeling being in the real estate realm would expose me to more future opportunities to invest. I like the idea of going the Appraiser or Realtor route. My skills set is probably better suited for Appraiser, however I am open to learn sales or whatever is needed. But I'm very interested to hear what other paths are out there that I haven't even considered! 

If you've been or are in a similar position please share! I very much appreciate any feedback, advice, or wisdom you throw my way.