I started as a mechanical engineer. Made a career change after 5 years as a ME to a career as a SWE. I followed my passion I told myself. For the first years, it was awesome. Doing what I love everyday and get paid for it. But now comparing myself with people who studied with me or went to school with me, I'm way behind in terms of career and salary. They are all in leadership positions with probably double the salary of mine. I wonder where I would have been if I just followed the standard path. Probably way better in terms of salary. To those who have switched careers: Have you ever regretted your decisions? Could you catch up the lost time and lower salary?
TC?
A switch usually comes with a reset. That's how it works.
Don't compare it will only hurt you. I am sure you are doing fine, especially since you switched. Keep growing and doing what you love.
I was a Senior ME and I switched to mid level SWE. I have no regrets. My salary doubled as a mid level SWE. Plus I’m Leetcoding everyday now and prepping for FANG interviews.
Comparing with others will only bring misery. Compare with yourself and ask if the switch made you happier.
I switched mine because I liked programming. Both my degrees are not in computer science and yet I became a Software developer and never regretted it. Since you love doing what you do, why do you even compare your salary with others.
SWE in Bay Area gets paid multiple times more than ME. Come to the Bay Area, you will make more then your CEO friends.
My only regret is that I have not done the switch sooner, and wasted valuable time at previous company, telling myself it's company's fault that I am bored.
I switched industries.. went from industrial design to adtech/digital media.. I regret it. I make more in media but I didn’t like it
Without knowing the specific companies and titles of those you’re comparing against, it’s hard to know if they are actually making more than you. More impact possibly if they’re managing teams. Point is don’t compare. I made the switch, would probably never gotten to where I am if I didn’t. Software is more fun.