Industry Transition (Architecture to ???)

[LionLamb]

Hi all,

First time on the forum and wanted to ask a question for any members with experience in transiting from architecture to other industries!

Graduated a couple of years back and am currently on the progression to get my QP, that is to say my practicing license. Personally I am quite enjoying the experience with some pretty interesting projects despite the insane work hours at times and conclude it mainly to the nature of the job.

However, looking at the long term, the pay and working hours do not look too enticing (sub 5k-- after 3-4 years or maybe 6k++ after QP), and with added adult financial responsibilities, I feel it is not too early for me to objectively consider transiting into another industry that would be equally challenging but with a better compensation structure.

Right now, it is not uncommon for architects to get their license and either,

a) Start their own firm (known as the maverick)
b) Join developer and manage other architects by representing client (known as the dark side)
c) Sign on as an architect in a large firm (salaryman4lyfe)

Neither of these seem especially well-paying although option B is the most common one as it allows architects to move out of doing the grunt work and mainly managing projects.

Are there industries more suited for a transiting out architect? ie. Is it too late to join investment banking per se?

Just wanted to hear from anyone who has done so!

Thank you.