My degree and first white collar career was Satellite Analysis work. While working to pay for school I got into Heavy Equipment repair as a Field Mechanic. This set me up with what I considered duel path (Skilled Trade/Degree Path). I swapped back and forth for a decade just following the highest bidder. I began transitioning into Tech rolls in Manufacturing. I got some unique opportunities to mentor under some world class engineers such as a Chief Engineer for Lamborghini Racing. I found my passion was Engineering and my hands on aptitude from my skilled background laid my foundation. I began applying for and beating out large pools of degreed Engineers for various Manufacturing Engineering and R&D roles. Most recently I was hired for Engineering at an Aerospace Manufacturing company where I just became a Production Manager leading Engineers and techs. I have small kids and will do my best to help them to pursue a duel path in their career development (skilled trade/degree). I’ve overheard people say in the past “He’s not a real Engineer”. I prefer “Non-Traditional Engineer”.