Reno:
Based on your calcs regarding 'mileage', I'm roughly in the same travel class. 50 mi. 1 way, and add whatever 'personal' additional little trips.
Here in NJ, I have to add tolls to the equation, at $4.00 per day for the commute. Yes, NJ has a low gas tax, and now low gas prices at the pump, but...a .23cent gas tax increase is on the horizon.
The electrical trade has provided a comfortable living. I now (15 yrs) 'moved' to the inspectors side of the fence.
I hear from many contractors that there is a 'shortage' of people in our trade that want to work. If this is localized to my area, or state wide I'm not sure.
Personally, looking at your comparisons, Id stick to our trade, and advise the 'youngsters' to go to trade school.
