4 answers
Lindsey
Student
Clarksville, Tennessee
1
Question
Asked
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How can a tenured finance professional switch to a career in the environmental sector?
I am currently working as a finance professional and I have a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with my final 45 hours of coursework (upper division) in Environmental Studies. Due to having worked in construction finance and accounting for over 10 years now, that is really the bulk of my professional experience. I am also earning a great salary due to this long term experience, but I have lost a lot of passion for type of work I do, and I no longer feel like it is rewarding. I am looking to get into a more environmental related role and I don’t know what my options are outside of pursuing my Masters Degree in Environmental Science. Any advice for someone currently established as a professional looking to change careers? Is it too late in the game for me?
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4 answers
Nadia G
Psychologist, Coach & Career Advisor
73
Answers
Norway
Updated
Nadia’s Answer
Hi Lindsey, your desired field is not my area of expertise; however, I can give you a piece of advice about the other part of your question: is it too late?
The short answer is: the good news is it's never too late, and I can confidently say that based on my own experience. However, as everything in life, it's good to think over potential implications of it and prepare yourself as much as possible.
I usually recommend to start with an analysis of your current work-family-health-social situation. For example, do you have any financial commitments? do you have any financial buffer (in case of any unexpected life events or having a lower salary for some time)? How much do you usually spend on a weekly/monthly basis? How much time, money and effort do you need to invest to move to the new field? Then, based on your outcomes, try to find solutions for challenges or see if there are any areas that you must secure or work on before your move.
Also, think about your support circle. That kind of a change may come with ups and downs, including loosing motivation if it takes more than expected. Having someone (a partner, a friend, etc.) in case of such events is priceless!
The short answer is: the good news is it's never too late, and I can confidently say that based on my own experience. However, as everything in life, it's good to think over potential implications of it and prepare yourself as much as possible.
I usually recommend to start with an analysis of your current work-family-health-social situation. For example, do you have any financial commitments? do you have any financial buffer (in case of any unexpected life events or having a lower salary for some time)? How much do you usually spend on a weekly/monthly basis? How much time, money and effort do you need to invest to move to the new field? Then, based on your outcomes, try to find solutions for challenges or see if there are any areas that you must secure or work on before your move.
Also, think about your support circle. That kind of a change may come with ups and downs, including loosing motivation if it takes more than expected. Having someone (a partner, a friend, etc.) in case of such events is priceless!
Thank you so much Nadia for taking the time to respond, this is very solid and thoughtful advice!
Lindsey
Kyle Ali
Marine Biologist
4
Answers
Belize City, Belize District, Belize
Updated
Kyle ’s Answer
Hi Lindsey, it's definitely not too late to switch to the environmental sector, and your background might be more useful than you think. With over ten years in construction finance and accounting, you have valuable skills like budgeting, capital planning, and regulatory compliance. These are in high demand in areas like sustainability, renewable energy, and climate initiatives. The environmental sector needs more than just scientists; it needs people who understand funding, financial risk, and sustainable finance.
Instead of going for a full Master’s in Environmental Science, consider roles like ESG analyst, climate finance specialist, or conservation finance officer. You could boost your profile with certifications in ESG or sustainable finance, showing your commitment without a complete career change.
A strategic move to a renewable energy firm, green construction company, or impact investment organization could keep your earning power while aligning with your interests. Mid-career changes work well because of your experience and skills, and the environmental field needs people who understand finance and governance. Think of this as using your financial expertise for a mission-driven impact.
Instead of going for a full Master’s in Environmental Science, consider roles like ESG analyst, climate finance specialist, or conservation finance officer. You could boost your profile with certifications in ESG or sustainable finance, showing your commitment without a complete career change.
A strategic move to a renewable energy firm, green construction company, or impact investment organization could keep your earning power while aligning with your interests. Mid-career changes work well because of your experience and skills, and the environmental field needs people who understand finance and governance. Think of this as using your financial expertise for a mission-driven impact.
Wow Kyle thank you so much! This is solid advice and incredibly useful guidance. I hadn’t thought of using my financial knowledge and background in this way and this helps to clearly define which paths I should be looking at without pulling the trigger on a Master’s right away. Thanks again!
Lindsey
Omowunmi Osholeye
Financial Advisory Consultant
6
Answers
Lanham, Maryland
Updated
Omowunmi’s Answer
Hi Lindsey,
Just to let you know that you are in a good place, everyone feels like this at some point in their career.Besides your plan to go for a masters degree, you can also explore other areas of finance more closely related with your background in environmental sciences like green finance and sustainable finance. These areas are a good fusion between your experience in finance and your earlier undergrad studies in environmental science. However, if the intent is to pivot fully from finance to your background, then a masters route is fine.
Just to let you know that you are in a good place, everyone feels like this at some point in their career.Besides your plan to go for a masters degree, you can also explore other areas of finance more closely related with your background in environmental sciences like green finance and sustainable finance. These areas are a good fusion between your experience in finance and your earlier undergrad studies in environmental science. However, if the intent is to pivot fully from finance to your background, then a masters route is fine.
Thank you! I hadn’t thought about green finance or sustainable finance as options but I believe that’s also a good route to explore. I’d like to not stay in finance but this could be a good pivot and introduction into the field i.e. possibly working for a geotechnical firm or somewhere similar while I’m working on my master’s in Environmental Science.
Lindsey
Neh S
Project Manager
39
Answers
Lexington, South Carolina
Updated
Neh’s Answer
Hi Lindsey, It’s definitely not too late to transition into the environmental sector, especially with your strong foundation in finance and your upper-division coursework in Environmental Studies. Many organizations value professionals who can blend financial expertise with environmental knowledge to manage budgets, analyze sustainability projects, or lead green investments. To start, consider roles in sustainability reporting, environmental finance, or corporate social responsibility within companies or nonprofits focused on environmental issues. Networking with professionals in the field, attending relevant workshops or certifications, and leveraging your existing skills will help. While a Master’s can deepen expertise, pursuing targeted certifications or gaining practical experience through volunteering or projects can also open doors. I have done a few career changes and have also worked on Environment related projects, I see people from all kinds of background and who had also made career changes. Hope you find this helpful and practical. All the best!
Nehaba thank you so much, your response is extremely insightful and helpful! I have several opportunities in my area to volunteer I will try and make that more of a focus this year to start!
Lindsey