CNC machine operator wants to go to IT. But does it make sense? And where to go with the existing skills?

Question

IT education

For 8 years now I have been working as an operator-adjuster of machine tools with numerical control of the milling group. In principle, I like the work, but I hit the ceiling. Further either in technologists, or in senior adjusters. Neither one nor the other attracts both in terms of salary and the specifics of the work. I have programming experience in Python, C, C#, Lua. At one time, I suffered for a long time with the available licensed software provided by the employer, until I freaked out and started writing small utilities for myself. Up to the automatic generation of UE (control program for the machine tool) from a dxf-drawing. In principle, I like to progat. And the further, the more. I got carried away writing prototypes in Unity - a friend dragged me (he wants to play in the game industry). And to be honest, I don't even know what I want specifically. I only know that I don’t want to work as an operator to gray hair,

By the way, a little freelance in python. Participated in a small development. I would like to master something that will help to earn some money - parsing sites, for example, well, or what is popular there now?

Answer 1

The author, as the curator advises, understand yourself. Then even without us you will know where to go.
And closer to the topic ...
Write down words for Google:
process control system, SCADA, PLC, production automation, electricity metering, telemetry, industrial automation.
If we talk about money, then they can also pay very well there.
Is there an English language? If not, then add it to your plans.
Use the base you have wisely.
My opinion, "web programmers" in most cases is the way for those who have no base. Do not be fooled by advertising courses and subject articles / videos of bloggers and YouTubers.
And keep in mind the main thing: employers have been hungry for good techies in the automation of production for the last 30 years. And there has been an overabundance of junior webmasters for at least 15 years.

Answer 2

Does it make sense - this is for you to see a psychologist.
Your life. Automation skills are good.
But programming for yourself and programming in a corporate project are two different things. For a junior, they are currently asking for OOP, patterns, algorithms. Therefore, to pass the interview, you will most likely have to sweat and study a lot.
And the physical resource is not eternal for developers either. Brains, eyes, wrist, back...

Answer 3

If automation, then - PLC and SCADA. (building automation, including Smart Homes). Of course, PLCs are also needed in industry, but I have not seen invitations for a long time.