[parasubvert]

Blue collar workers can make a lot of money these days, especially if their trade required significant theoretical learning and practical training.

Electricians, mechanics, heavy machinery operators in Alberta can make $150,000 in the oil sands before overtime, plus fly-in/fly-out costs; in the major urban centers, upwards of $100,000. If you're young, add in overtime and you're looking at $150-200k+. Foremen and supervisors can make up to double.

A programmer in the Bay Area will top out around $200k as a senior member of technical staff.