FileVault is apparently stuck at '2 hours remaining'. Can't update machine other than to wipe/reinstall?

Greetings forhorsman,

If you are having issues encrypting the Mac, this may help:

"Change Secure Boot settings

Use these settings to make sure that your Mac always starts up from a legitimate, trusted operating system.

Full Security

Full Security is the default setting, offering the highest level of security. This is a level of security previously available only on iOS devices.

During startup, your Mac verifies the integrity of the operating system (OS) on your startup disk to make sure that it's legitimate. If the OS is unknown or can't be verified as legitimate, your Mac connects to Apple to download the updated integrity information it needs to verify the OS. This information is unique to your Mac, and it ensures that your Mac starts up from an OS that is trusted by Apple.

If FileVault is enabled while your Mac is attempting to download updated integrity information, you're asked to enter a password to unlock the disk. Enter your administrator password, then click Unlock to complete the download.

If the OS doesn't pass verification:

• macOS: An alert informs you that a software update is required to use this startup disk. Click Update to open the macOS installer, which you can use to reinstall macOS on the startup disk. Or click Startup Disk and choose a different startup disk, which your Mac will also attempt to verify.
• Windows: An alert informs you that you need to install Windows with Boot Camp Assistant.

If your Mac can't connect to the internet, it displays an alert that an internet connection is required.

• Check your internet connection, such as by choosing an active network from Wi-Fi status menu  in the menu bar. Then click Try Again.
• Or click Startup Disk and choose a different startup disk.
• Or use Startup Security Utility to lower the security level" About Startup Security Utility on a Mac with the Apple T2 Security Chip

We hope this helps!

Sincerely.