[_k5mx]

Well, I have an opposite problem. I work in a different industry, but completely adore programming and solving variety of problems that involve data processing or connecting various systems together.

[Jtsummers]

Regarding "too late":

You work in a particular field, is it possible to take your knowledge of the "daily grind" to one of the development houses making tools you use? Is there some software that would be particularly useful that doesn't yet exist? Can you write plug-ins for existing tools (and sell them, a friend did that for audio processing software)?

You have domain experience, you don't have to forfeit it if you make the switch to programming.

[_k5mx]

Not really. Our software is essentially a set of advanced image processing pipelines. It is not as simple as "import cv2".

Appreciate the support though.

[triplesec]

What's too late? I'm certain you could work in other kinds of development

[xchaotic]

I bet the OP can make loads more money in VFX than going back and doing some junior programming role, hence I'm with him.

[_k5mx]

I can, but it does mean starting from scratch.