🎓 Chemical Engineer By Day — Photographer By Soul!
Disclaimer: Good Day, Readers. The WealthBuildingPowers blog is a financial literacy and competency blog, and it does not provide specific investment recommendations.
When I told my mom I wanted to be a photographer instead of going to college, she didn’t miss a beat: “Styron, you’re a good photographer. Be one—after you get a degree and a job.” This wasn’t a warm hug of support. It was a military-grade directive. I saluted and graduated with a degree in chemical engineering.
Decades later, I’ve visited over 30 countries, built a career in engineering and risk management, raised a family, will pay for a wedding in March 2025 {GoFundMe Link is below}, and am contributing to their first home. Thanks to Mom’s “benevolent dictatorship” and my belief in continuous improvement, I ended my career holding four degrees, the last from Harvard University. I have taken pictures in dozens of countries. Many of my Florida neighbors assume I’m a pro. I let them. No one needs to know I pay for all this “glass” {lenses} { (I’m addicted to glass – Always Need Another) with an engineer’s pension and 401-K.
🎭 The High Price of Passion
My cousin Agnes majored in history. Then she shockingly joined the Air Force—short, petite, Black, and surrounded by 99% white men. Lieutenant Powers served proudly, transitioned into state government, and recently retired. Respect. But would that path be feasible today with six figures of debt? Probably not. Thank you for your service, Agnes!
🔧 Smarter Paths to Prosperity
You don’t need a four-year degree to live a fulfilling life. Trades and professional certifications offer high pay, low debt, and quick entry:
AI is Creating a Demand For Millions of Good-Paying Trade Jobs
🔧 Electrician
- Median salary: ~$60,000–$80,000/year
- High demand across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors
- Many start their businesses after gaining experience
🔥 HVAC Technician (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)
- Median salary: ~$50,000–$75,000/year
- Essential in both hot and cold climates (hello, Florida summers!)
🛠️ Welder
- Median salary: ~$45,000–$70,000/year
- Critical in construction, manufacturing, and even underwater welding (yes, that’s a thing)
- Can lead to roles in inspection, supervision, or entrepreneurship
🚛 Commercial Truck Driver
- Median salary: ~$50,000–$80,000/year
- Fast training (often under 8 weeks)
- Long-haul drivers can earn six figures with experience and bonuses
🧪 Radiologic Technologist
- Median salary: ~$60,000–$75,000/year
- Requires a 2-year associate’s degree or certification
- Strong job growth in healthcare settings
🔩 Aircraft Mechanic
- Median salary: ~$70,000–$90,000/year
- High responsibility, high reward
- Often employed by airlines, the government, or private aviation firms
🔑 Kids and Parents – Now More Than Ever Is the Time For Critical Thinking!
The paths to financial freedom are UNLIMITED. CHOOSE YOUR OWN!
LET’S MAKE SOME MONEY – CRYPTOCURRENCY IS ACCEPTED!
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ABOUT ME
I am a proud nerd (as my beautiful wife and daughter have told me), investment and finance blogger with an NC. State, Chemical Engineering, Rutgers University, MBA, and Harvard University, Advanced Management education.
I left a corporate career because I desired to make a difference as a speaker and writer. I was blessed to be coached and mentored by strong women and men in my family and professional life. It is my time to serve and give back.
DISCLAIMER
I started my first business at ~13 years of age (a small but brilliantly created plant nursery). I am a successful investor in stocks, options, and real estate and am happy to share my finance and investment lessons. I am NOT a licensed financial advisor. Please do not construe my suggestions on this blog as recommendations for your situation. As an investor, you must establish your risk/loss tolerance. Investment in any asset involves risk, including complete loss.
Please seek your licensed CPA or fiduciary financial advisors for individual financial advice.
I write this weekly blog to make an impact by reaching an audience and demonstrating the need for financial literacy. I will help you get there.
