I was laid off six months ago. I guess it’s about time I laid my cards on the table. For the past 12 years I have worked as a Heavy Equipment Mechanic and Operator.

Most of the time the work can be very frustrating and unpleasant. Last winter we spent two months in 2-3 feet of muck building block retaining walls. We spent almost as much time pumping water and getting equipment un-stuck as we did building.

When I got out of college with a BA in Economics (I washed out of Engineering after two years of trying to make up for blowing off math in high school) I didn't want to wear a suite and tie. I was presented with the opportunity to learn a trade and took it with hopes of eventually finding something where I could apply my education. Time sure flies.

My hope, although probably naive, is that there were programming jobs before the IT and .com craze. There should be afterwards.

Recessions usually last about 9-11 months. I counting on things getting better by the time I get out of school. On the other hand, I see the possibility of deepening recession or worse but I'm not going to sit here biting my nails.

Thanks for yet another valid POV.

Rob