The writer of a December letter to the editor seemed to imply that young people should flock to become service technicians if they are not in tune with four years of college. For her and thousands of other fixed ops managers and dealers who think like her, here is the reality pill that everyone just wants to spit out.

I am a former dealership fixed ops manager as well as a human relations professional and dealership recruiter with more than 20 years’ experience. Many career opportunities await young workers who opt out of getting a four-year degree.

Here are just a few examples of industries whose companies approach me looking to poach our techs: railroads, trucking, utilities and oil. These jobs pay well and offer full benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans.

What these jobs don’t have: roller-coaster pay weeks because of flat-rate pay plans, bills for $30,000 to $50,000 for education if techs want an associate’s degree, and another $30,000 to $50,000 in tool expenses.

Today’s work force is avoiding our industry like Ebola. There are solutions, but they are bitter pills that automakers and the industry do not want to swallow.

JOE HENRY, Owner, ACT Auto Staffing, Palm Harbor, Fla.