I was an aircraft engineer in the RAF for 25 years.
About 10 years before I left, I started training myself as a software developer, mainly with the Open University.
Since leaving the RAF I’ve worked as a software developer, initially full time, changed to a 4-day week in 2010 and for the last three years since age 55 have moved down to a 3-day week.
I could retire, but actually really enjoy my work/life balance working Mon-Wed then the rest of the week off. Keeps the brain from turning to mush and, to be honest with my two kids in their early twenties the extra cash comes in handy to help with house deposits, cars etc.
Software development was a good choice really, as there are plenty of well-paid jobs out there. It is also easy to work from home in the current climate. There is a downside though. Software development is constantly evolving and the older you get, the harder it becomes to learn new things.
Keeps me sharp though.