Since being out of aviation I have been shocked to discover what the outside world earns for seemingly low rung jobs. Police, fire and UPS delivery men earn a regional captains wage after only a few years. My wife's uncle retired from delivering for UPS for 20 years and is very well off because of it. Last week a family friend accepted a position with a local auto dealership to be a finance specialist. His base is 80K and has the ability to hit 120k through commissions.

In America today we are blessed with a robust and generous university system. More than at any other time it is easy for anyone to get a college degree. Universities, community colleges and technical schools compete for students. All are interested in securing better pay and working conditions, but are they?

When one takes a look at the world of word the results seem puzzling. How is it that a ten year regional airline captain barely bests a UPS delivery guy? Why does a meth addicted construction worker net 43K per year in my area?

The reason is that increasingly people will trade pay and benefits for an interesting sounding job. Currently those with a little ambition and focus look to college for what they think will lead them to a better life and job. Occupations that require some skill and dedication in the blue collar sector are being passed up by people who think the rainbow lies with a higher education.

As the years pass certified plumbers, electricians and telecommunications workers will earn more than airline pilots and lower rung business executives. Hey wait a minute, they already do earn more.

SkyHigh