I've been thinking about this for a while. Questions and comments are appreciated. Foremost I'd like to find out: (1) In terms of technical and job related strengths and weaknesses, what observations can be made about career changers vs predominantly/straight-out-of-school CS professionals? (2) I'd like to design AI, not just use or apply AI software. Would anyone happen to know any tips or pitfalls?

Reason for my idea: Not saying that my current job is easy, but I'm not sweating it either. I feel ready and an itch for something more challenging, 'nerdy', and new. My primary reason for entering my current field was financial security.

Background: (1) BSc in mathematics from a top 10 university in the US with some basic CS such as Java, Python, and Lisp; I didn't find it too difficult. (2) Approx. 8 yr of experience in the financial industry w/ specialized programming experiences, but nothing deep under the hood

Rough approach: (1) Search for a part-time position (maybe government, sm/med business, or non-profits); nothing likely from my current employer unfortunately; I also have some passive income but not too much. (2) Pursue a Masters in CS, making up for any pre-reqs and supplementing with independent study. (3) Find finance-related AI work or even something unrelated if the market looks promising.

If I'm posting in the wrong section/manner, please let me know. Thanks!