A short timeline for you, Q. This is how I did it.
-1969, a paper route
-1971, my first real job.....working in a drug store
-1972, worked at a place that made electric fence products
-1973, auto parts business....manager in 1975
-1978, steel mill
-1980, railroad...signal dept.
I have friends that are now retired, and others that are laid off. And some that are no longer with us.
Welcome to the crap shoot.
sparks