Jeff, I retired at a steel mill after 30 years. Many of the welders who worked there have health issues. Most of them have emphysema and one of them is waiting for a lung transplant caused by inhaling welding fumes over the years.
After I retired at age 54, I went to get my CDL. While at truck driving school we had several recruiters visit us enlisting students upon graduating.
I found a truck driving job on my own not far from where I live. I deliver to grocery wharehouses, not the most glorious of trucking jobs but I am home everynight and my job is no longer hot, dirty and dangerous. (I don't mean to imply trucking isn't dangerous, but watching a 30 ton ladle of hot molten steel pass right over your head every 45 minutes for 30 years can scare the crap out of you!)
I don't make the money I am used to making but I retired with a good pension so money isn't a big factor.
I think you are making a good move, especially since you still have your health. I have no regrets doing what I did and I am sure you won't either.
Good luck to you.
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If you can't explain to a 5 year old what you're doing, than you don't know what you're doing.
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