You are correct, but in his case, I would confidently say that his skills as a helicopter mechanic are far more valuable than someone who cleans hotel rooms or flips burgers. It sounds like he has somewhat boxed himself into a corner via his choice to live in a small town where his skill set may not be in much demand. If he chose to live in a bigger city ... or within reasonable commuting distance of a bigger city ... then I would think his opportunities for higher paying jobs would drastically increase. But, I realize I'm not telling you anything you don't already know ... and what you may have already conveyed to your nephew.
The essential American soul is hard, isolate, stoic, and a killer. It has never yet melted. ~ D.H. Lawrence |