I also don't wish for my children to get caught up in the material hype so common to our country today. It was asked that the name would never be revealed. Some of us are raising future preachers, mechanics, MCSE professionals, company presidents, politicians, etc. As a career consultant of a non-degreed dh, I would like to add my comments to the importance of a degree and lack there of. A degree initially will get you more money and better chances at the career path or job you want.
Locality is also important.
The economy is the second factor. The first thing a non-degreed individual must decide is the career path of there choice. Then they must take all training available, even if it means minimum wage or no pay at all. They must acquire skills in this field and start out entry level which is likely to be low pay. They must keep there resumes current and keep applying elsewhere.