It's sort of basic economics that there are always people at the margin of any supply and demand curve. I was a line operator in a plastic factory for 15 years,

It's sort of basic economics that there are always people at the margin of any supply and demand curve. I was a line operator in a plastic factory for 15 years, making up to $15/hour. I had a 1480 SAT, but I saved 50% of my income so I was perfectly comfortable. I didn't believe all the extra effort it takes to do a professional job was worth it when I could just wear a uniform and bike to work. Doubling my salary makes it worth it, even in a higher-cost-of-living area. Some of those industrial workers have built up amazing work habits that could really ramp up their programming skills if applied that way, as well.