I think the times have changed for opportunities at good, great, or even decent paying employment without an education past high school. Even those who do not pursue AA's, BA's, Masters, or doctorates have some sort of trade certification or credentialing behind them. In these times having skills for a job may offer some advantage however in my opinion, with a myriad of folks returning for a higher education these days, many folks finding decent jobs unless self employed will not have a chance at decent paying jobs. I'm sure the career section can offer better insight on this part.
If finding a job with a Bachelors degree is difficult and driving more folks to pursue Masters degrees, Six Sigma Certifications or anything past that degree they already have...then it will surely be much more difficult for the individual with skills and no degree.
Focusing on online schools with internship opportunities is a good idea also.
