Call back some recruiters who turned you down because of the degree. Tell them appreciated their advice and are working on the degree. Ask them what experience

Call back some recruiters who turned you down because of the degree. Tell them appreciated their advice and are working on the degree. Ask them what experience they recommend you get over the next three years to be eligible for the job once you have the degree. Don’t discount the work experience you’ve had. You have 18 years of working with people & working through problems. Your maturity will count. 39 is still young.