Hello. Out of all places, I've decided to come here for help. I think it's probably because I like to live as far below my means as I can, like much of you. I'm going to try and explain my situation in as few words as possible and get straight to the point. I appreciate any help or advice I receive from anyone; now that my thank you is out of the way, I'll tell my tale:
Basically my life has been flipped upside down during the last six months: I'm ready to move on and start anew. I was attending university for engineering (civil), but long story short I'm not anymore. It was a mix of things that lead to cease my pursuit of that degree; I would rather look towards the future than dwell on that though. Although I realize it's not a B.S., I did receive my A.S. in Engineering Science in '12, so at least I have SOMETHING to show for my hard work. I really enjoyed the general math and physics classes I took getting my A.S., and I enjoyed my time in the classroom. It was a nice transition coming from a Marine Corps infantry battalion to a more relaxed classroom environment.
Fast forward to today. Due to injuries I received in Iraq I'm entitled to VA Vocational Rehabilitation.
http://www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/index.asp?utm_source=hootsuite&utm_campaign=hootsuite Basically the VA will pay for you to attend a school or tech school of your choice in hopes of you being able to find a worthwhile career.
My question to you is what program and or certificate should I go for?I know I should probably pack up my truck and go head to an oil field somewhere, but I would rather view that as my last option. I like to think I'm very open to different ideas in regards to figuring out my life, so I would greatly appreciate any advice. I'll list some random stuff about me so you have a better idea of what I like.
* Dream job is elevator mechanic/constructor. Went through the hiring process for local 2 in Chicago and got ranked in the 80's out of 1600+ people who passed the test. They call people in order they're ranked to become an apprentice. The list is good for a couple years, so fingers crossed I get a call, but I don't want to sit around and wait for that call
* Interested in working with hands outdoors
* Thought of getting a welding certificate and then trying to work in the oil industry. Are there any technical jobs in that industry I could go for?
* Was a grunt in the Corps. DON'T WANT TO BE A COP OR DO PRIVATE SECURITY WORK
* I realize I should probably move somewhere south and start over but I'm kind of nervous doing that. Only debt I carry is my truck ($9,xxx) and only have a couple thousand in savings. Trying to work on the savings and kill truck debt.
* Really like airplanes, but I've read mixed reviews about being a mechanic in that industry
To sum up... You're a 29 year old, single, no kids, minimal debt, A.S. degree, living in Chicago but open to possibility of moving: What program and or certificate do you go for?