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Baby Boomers Embracing Encore Careers

ABC News affiliate WFAA 8, 8/18/07

Abstract:

Jim Siegfried is trading his office cubical at IBM for a teacher's desk at Lynn Hale Elementary School in Arlington.

"I've always wanted to teach, but I didn't think I could make enough to raise a family," said the 53-year-old former customer service professional. "Not that I'm about to become an empty-nester, the time is right."

Mr. Siegfried, who lives in Arlington, is becoming a fifth grade math teacher this fall because he believes he has a talent for helping children and he wants a job that lets him "give back" to his community.

Mr. Siegfried is hardly unique among baby boomers. A recent survey by the MetLife Foundation and Civic Ventures think tank has found that six out of 10 boomers in their 50s would like to switch careers someday and find jobs with a higher, social purpose. Many have set their sights on education, health care, the ministry and social services.

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