I can't give any advice on college but as far as trades are concerned electrical work pays pretty well. I'm only 22, but I still make a great living in my opinion. I bring home about 30 k a year. Not counting overtime. It also helps that my wife brings home close to the same. Right now I am overseas working and it pays very Well. After I come home for Christmas and come back over here for another 5-6 months with one three week trip home the only bills we will have in our name are water power and insurance.one weeks pays over what I make in a month at home. Just stinks missing out on bow season and most of December hunting