You mean there isnt alot of work out there in the field? I have somebody calling me once a week telling me that somebody is looking for a welder. How bad do you wanna work? How hungry are you? Some jobs might not pay $60hr plus per diem, but i know my family has to eat. I really dont have a choice. $30hr vs $0hr waiting on big money $60hr. Huhhhhh -> $30hr it is. I know what you mean, but before you get the big money jobs you got to like what you do. Retireing for me isnt a option, but like my grandpa told me " i will rest in my grave". I know what you mean by not giving up cause your young though. I was trying to rig out 23 yrs old. I didnt know adamn thing. I have busted my ass taking ****y jobs cause i wanted to weld. For me now, if i get laid off or finish a job its on to the next one. All depends on how bad you want, and you will have some sacrafices to make on the way.