Agreed. Part of the problem is that vocational training is largely a rip-off, and the vocational institutes often demand prices to rival academic institutions.

Agreed. Part of the problem is that vocational training is largely a rip-off, and the vocational institutes often demand prices to rival academic institutions. It seems like there is a market for accredited vocational institutes with a more rigorous curriculum (and standards) at a more affordable price. Community colleges are the closest thing to this right now that I'm aware of. Online education is still struggling for validity, and I believe simply does not provide enough structure to push a large number of people through even if these problems are somehow resolved. Is there some middle ground that employers would actually value?