[asphaltgambler]

- I'm done. I'm 51 years old, currently a BMW / Euro Technician and still recieve absolutely no lasting respect, full commision only, no sick days or any real benefits. I have owned my own auto repair small business back in the mid 80's and most recently have been through a failed partnership. I consider myself (from my peers) to be knowledgable, exellent problem solver, good at what I do + I posess great people /management skills. In short; I am in demand in my field.

I have seen and survived many ups and downs in this business over the last 35 years but never this bad and it's more than just the economy. It's the evolution/technical progression of todays' automobile and the determination of the business side to remain in the dark ages.

When I was a kid, I could not ever imagine a time where two of the the big three automakers would file for bankruptcy, with the third almost there all within months of each other. The repair side failing right along with it. As long as there are people who allow themselves to be wh*red out by the mangers and owners; business will continue as usual.

In December a sought out and hired a small business consultant, paid him well to advise me objectively on what to do and where to go career wise as well as a few financial issues in my personal life. That advice may turn out to be .................priceless

In a nutshell: Get out of the auto industry and anything retail in general. Look into the only three industrys' that have real growth and will continue so even in bad economic times. 1) Homeland Security 2) Healthcare 3) IT - Use my best traits, skills and interest; figure out where they 'fit' in one of these areas. Then pursue the logical path in training and certifications to break into the career I've decided.

My choice: Electronic Security Technician - I 'm am currently involved in ongoing training and certs in that area. I shoud be 'resume-ready in 6-8 weeks. I'll keep you posted