Greetings,
Mr. P. I agree with society, well, North American society at least, looking down on the "trades" or those who get their hands dirty doing a days labor.
When I was growing up, the common mantra was "Go to university and get a good job" but things have changed over the last XX years. It's not uncommon for a plumber or electrician to be making 6 figures ($$) a year. Heck, a good diesel mechanic can easily pull in $200K+, much more than a college educated white collar worker, yet, in spite of that, a "good" job still appears to be white collar.
I applaud those parents who encourage their children to enter the "trades" and also those who encourage their daughters to enter non traditional occupations. HVAC technician is a perfect example.
Part of the problem is the schools still seem to be university oriented. Shop classes are being phased out in various curricula and more emphasis placed on SAT scores and preparation for passing same.
Unfortunately, if little Johnny is not academically inclined, he soon falls by the wayside, is labeled a failure, drops out and is left with few options to better himself. He may have been a mechanic in the making if given the encouragement.