I am currently am a 9-5 employee making around 50k and will receive a raise putting me at 55k in 6 months but that’s it. The social services field does not pay well, however, it is stable income. I have the capital (cash on hand), to buy myself a welder, materials, equipment, and a garage with an industrial outlet hook up for 220v.

I attend college classes in my free time to raise my salary. In about 6 months I will have no more classes to take and my hourly wage will cap at $27. To me that honestly doesn’t seem like enough to raise a family. My father raised me in the automotive trade and it’s crazy to see him still clearing 100k easy doing body work. Ya I know the heat sucks, the condition suck, but I would rather be dirty making a 100k than being all dressed up for a 50k yearly job.

Maybe I just need the encouragement, but I am thinking of just buying the essentials equipment after school is up in (6 months) and start making projects, furniture, and art to offset the original purchase. I think my focus will be performance and custom automotive parts. I worked with my father for 10 years in the trade and understand the importance of building solid customer relationships. I just don’t want to have to ask permission to go use the toilet like I’m 12, and earn enough to raise a family.