They started companies. They didn't have to work for anyone else. They got into their fields relatively early, while large and crusty competitors left their lun

They started companies. They didn't have to work for anyone else. They got into their fields relatively early, while large and crusty competitors left their lunch on the table for the taking. If you don't have money to be an entrepreneur, hiring is now done by pattern-matching algorithms and good luck getting to an interview without a degree or experience in the field (and good luck finding an entry level position). If you do get there, you'll most likely be competing against credentialed and experienced people for the position. It's absolutely a good idea to get a degree, but taking the cheap route is probably ok as long as you learn your stuff properly.