Ericferret: That was many moons ago indeed and yes, it was a less than ideal 'number' but (and as I am sure you would agree) a unique experience.
Just to set the record straight I am not looking to 'change' careers. I quit commerical flying in the mid-1990's and went into airline management with start-ups in Africa as well as one 'household' name (at least within the airline industry) in the Middle East. In more recent years I have taken-up my duty in what might best be described as the 'family business.'
I was (and am) genuinely interested to hear from anyone who has gone into engineering from the pilot's seat - for while there is no less responsibility .. engineering seems to offer a rewarding alternative to flying.