Comments:

Say, how much does a trade school "loser" pay per year in text books, "student activity" fees, and Title IX "insurance"?
Say, what is the current estimate of welder, diesel mechanic, elevator mechanic job security?
Wait! Does spelling count?

Posted by CaptDMO at July 27, 2014 4:11 PM

Job security is permanent. Fire him and he goes off and works for himself until he finds another place that needs his services. Or jobs out as sees fit. Plumbers, electricians, mechanics and others that use hand/eye skills will always be necessary.

Call the JOATS: Jacks Of All Trades.

Posted by Vermont Woodchuck at July 27, 2014 4:51 PM

@VW: You nailed it.
I spent forty-four years as an electrician. Trade school and apprenticeship were on the company's (General Motors) dime. My trade helped me in the service, think: explosive ordnance.
My last job before I took ill was as a Diagnostic Electrician at thirty-two bucks an hour, lots of OT and a benefits package some folks would have worked for even without wages. While I was on medical leave the company paid me 80% wages and maintained my health care benefits. As a cancer patient the costs have been more than buying two homes.

In the times to come if we get to TEOTWAWKI my skills will be a barter item, worth more than ammo I think.

Posted by chasmatic at July 27, 2014 5:48 PM

I picked up the basics of carpentry, structures, plumbing, glazing, masonry, electrical, steam and small engines working in my Dad's greenhouses through jr. high, high school and college. He and I did all the maintenance and repair, and he had many years of experience and knew the codes. We never did bricks or welding that I recall. Never made a dime from those skills, but they have served me well over the years cementing friendships with favors, community work and such. And, until I got too old/feeble, I could always have made my way as a handyman.

Posted by BillH at July 28, 2014 8:13 AM

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