I haven't followed this from day one but I have read this entire thread.
Here is my quick opinion.
You are in a fine field and a really good position. Just like anything you're gonna have to pay your dues but the upside is: You work even in the rain.
Plain and simple that is a big plus. Get this training under your belt and then in a few years go back and get an operator cert too.
Now look at how desireable you are.
I think you're right on the target with that statement thehose! I'm just a Mechanic/Welder. But I've never crawled up on any machine that I couldn't perform the basics with. I've said it before and I'll repeat it now I ain't no operator but i sure like trying at times.
chipsearthworks, there's more to this than just what will make you the most money. You need to find what you love doing and make that your carreer. The reason I say this is I've seen a lot of guys with what I would call a great job just walk away from it after a while. Mainly because they came to hate what they were doing. Oh sure there are times when we all get upset with our jobs but most of the time it's over in a day or so.
Some folks are operators some are mechanics and others are foremen. The bottom line is enjoy your work and you'll have a feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day. And never let someone else tell you what your job should be. You may have to try on a few hats before you find the right one. But you'll know it's the one because it'll fit like it was made for ya.
BTW on the mechanic or operator being more important. This is my take on that the operator is more important because if he don't tear up something I don't work. And I guess if I was an operator the mechanic would be more important cause if he didn't fix my machine I wouldn't work.
So don't be afraid yo try on a few hats, cause a lot of us here have.
ointhead
