I grew up in a very poor rural area. Last time I looked, the average household income was about 35K per year.

However, I have known at least 2 farmers who wear the same overalls, and drive the same old truck everyday, but died with 7 figures in the bank. And thats in addition to the value of the actual farm, home, equipment, and livestock. They never spent money on anything they didnt need.

AI is not going to take away skilled trades jobs any time soon. And with a little bit of business knowledge, you can make a great living working for yourself as a carpenter, plumber, machinist, etc. If youre good at managing people, the sky's the limit.

I don't believe that the fact that men are attending college less is a bad thing. There are many other avenues, if youre motivated. We can learn anything online for free, or close to it. The most successful entrepreneurs of our time went to school long enough to make the right connections, and dropped out. But many people need that well worn path toward a career.

All a degree says is that you're willing to play the established game.