I watched the skilled trade erosion firsthand over the last 20 years in the floor covering industry. The weak moved out of the residential market into the commercial arena where mediocre fit and finish is deemed acceptable. Flooring isn't nearly as complex as machining but does require numerous tricks of the trade only obtained through experience and good physical conditioning.
I couldn't agree more with Phil's position.......it's sad. Book-smart didn't build the foundation of past empires.
This country needs numerous local and affordable tech schools now.
I have quite a few friends that are highly educated and talented individuals, yet putting a tool in their hand is similar to giving one of my dogs a laptop computer.......
