Plenty of talented software engineers didn't go to college. I've got a few close friends who fall into this category. I went to college for something entirely unrelated and self-taught with side projects years after. Not sure where you are, but I've found the industry in the US (my experience is mostly NYC/SF specifically) incredibly receptive to people who are very smart, hardworking, and humble regardless of pedigree.
Curious what your experience is that makes you skeptical.
I live in Brazil, we have a special kind of high school that will teach you a craft in addition to your tipical scientific preparation.
And Yes, I have graduated from college, studied at night ;)
Curious what your experience is that makes you skeptical.