Is transitioning to Data Science at 38 a viable move given the AI and Machine Learning boom?

All answers to this question.

Coming from accounting, you already have a "data mindset" which is half the battle. Data Science isn't just about coding; it's about asking the right business questions. I’d suggest starting with Data Analytics to master SQL and Tableau, then layering on Python. Most companies need people who understand the "why" behind the numbers, not just someone who can run a model. I made the switch at 39 and my financial background made me a hero in the Fintech space. Don't let the "math" scare you; libraries like Scikit-Learn handle a lot of the heavy lifting.

   Answered 2025-01-07 by Donna Campbell

Are you more interested in the predictive modeling side or the visualization and reporting side? Knowing your preference will help you decide which bootcamp or course to take.

   Answered 2025-01-10 by Matthew Taylor

• Matthew, that's the key question. People think it is too late to switch to IT in your 30s in the US because they try to learn everything at once. If you focus on predictive modeling specifically for the industry you already know, like finance or accounting, you become a niche expert which is very valuable.

     Commented 2025-01-12 by Jason Moore

I shifted to Data Analytics at 36 and it was the best move. The salary floor is much higher than accounting, and the remote work options are way more prevalent.

   Answered 2025-01-14 by Michelle Scott

• Agreed. The transition from accounting to data is actually quite natural. Your existing knowledge of logic and auditing helps immensely when cleaning messy datasets.

     Commented 2025-01-16 by Christopher Lewis