At 60, Richard Woulfe Started a Third Career as a Flight Attendant—and Says Being Gen X Helped

Richard Woulfe had already built two successful careers in the travel industry, but at age 61, he wasn't ready for retirement. Instead, he launched a third career as a flight attendant, a role that requires energy, flexibility, and a customer-first mindset. Woulfe credits his Generation X background for his smooth transition, citing the resilience and adaptability that many in his cohort developed while navigating economic shifts and technological change. His story challenges common assumptions about age and career pivots, showing that later-life reinvention is not only possible but can be deeply fulfilling. With airlines facing staffing shortages and an aging workforce, Woulfe's path also highlights a broader trend: experienced workers are increasingly valued for their reliability and soft skills. As more people live longer and healthier lives, the idea of a single retirement age is fading. Woulfe's journey suggests that the key to a vibrant third act may be staying open to new adventures—even at 30,000 feet.