The way it works in the USA is that you would have to go back to an Airframe & Powerplant mechanic(FAA B1/2 engineer equivalent) school and your engineering degree offers no advantage other than theoretical knowledge, as you know. In the US being a "mechanic" is a major step down from being an engineer, however, there were 2 engineers in my A&P class, one electrical and one chemical who wanted to be hands on with aircraft. If anything it will be another skill set you can use. I don't believe distance learning is an option due to the nature of the work, I believe you would have to attend an on-site class. Hopefully someone can point you in the right direction locally.