I have worn different hats but have mostly been identified as a Data Analyst for 10 years. I like to take classes online during periods when I am either not working, or am able to learn without compromising my commitment to work. I am interested in SAS programming and better statistical knowledge, but I wonder how hiring managers and recruiters value these interests and skills. I feel like I need to decide at this point where to invest my time and money - should I become more scientific and technical; more of a statistician? Or consider myself part of the business and financial community? Direction and progression is needed at this point; I don't think I have enough knowledge yet to consider myself an expert in the field and I'm limiting my opportunities.

My attraction to the more scientific approach is partly a personal preference, but somewhat practical. There seems to be a greater ROI in learning a purely technical skill such as a programming language or tool, and near instant gratification. A career move toward finance, business or management means more formal education, probably taking myself out of the work force for awhile, a student loan, and (gasp) buying and wearing at least one suit. I welcome comments, corrections, related anecdotes, or any reactions to my thoughts on this. I could be completely off base, or there could be other options that haven't occurred to me. Of course it's important to enjoy my work, but the ability to earn income and have marketable skills is the real challenge I'm addressing.

Thanks in advance for any responses from recruiters or members of this forum.

Totally agree with Adrian.  Follow your interests and the career will blosom. 

If you are doing something you don't really like, you'll resent the work, you won't put in 100%, the work will sufer and the people you work with will know and before you know it you'll be stuck in a dead end somewhere, and be unhappy with 40 hours of your week as well.