Speaking to one of my lecturer who is an instructor said that if I graduated, and then 5 years later lose my medical so cannot fly, I'm 5 years more expensive as an engineer compared to the newest graduates as the engineering profession is always moving and new engineers are leaving university and are also seeking that first job. Also the argument of forgetting much of the knowledge during the time you're not an engineer etc etc....
However, you would be able to offer
5 years of practical experience in handling aircraft and their systems - and living and working in the real world.