If you drop the pejorative classist connotations of "blue collar," it always has been in the sense that programming is a craft. Some "blue collar" people make

If you drop the pejorative classist connotations of "blue collar," it always has been in the sense that programming is a craft. Some "blue collar" people make great money too. There are numerous skills in high demand in areas like welding, specialized construction techniques, etc. that can net you a six figure income.