wayofthedirt, a look at the following thread suggests it's not a good time.
Would you train for ATPL(H) in 2020/21?
Agree with
Two's in about private flying, aerobatics can open an area in developing skills, and a competitive outlet if you're so inclined, or gliding, once again can be competitive. With your engineering talent how about home building, an RV kit comes complete, is extremely good quality, capable of aerobatics, and good cross country machine with a second seat for company. How about skydiving, exciting, lot of new skills to learn. All of the suggestions have groups with great camaraderie, your address book will overflow with newfound friends. The skies the limit.
https://www.vansaircraft.com/
https://www.ssa.org/
https://uspa.org/