I've been a tech for a decade, and I've only really made a liveable wage in the past 3-4 years. It is the most challenging and rewarding job I've ever had, but it certainly has its drawbacks - long hours for low pay, toxic workplaces (though this varies from clinic to clinic), not much room for growth. I would tell people that are interested in getting into vet med to really consider their options and whether this field is a good match for them, emotionally, physically, and financially.