As a pilot with an A&P I had an opportunity to talk with recruiters from many different industries in which had absolutely nothing to do with aviation. Industries such as the railroads, pipeline companies, energy companies, bottling companies, and wind turbine companies to name a few. All of these industries as well as others paid far more than aviation and had better benefits. More than half of my classmates have nothing to do with aviation at all! You got to keep your eyes on the prize!