If you're looking into getting into IT, I only recommend college if you think you'll be interested in getting into management I have multiple acquaintances in the field, including a friend from high school that currently makes over 75k at Ft. Rucker in cyber security. He went from Air Force ---> civilian. He never finished college. Experience, good interviewing skills, and certs can get you in the door into an entry level position. Further expierence + continued education can put you in the position to make a good living beyond entry level work. You have to really be self motivated but once you get past the entry positions, the field is what you make of it. I won't advise against a degree because having it won't hurt, but again, it's more essential if you're looking into managerial slots. I'm not in IT, but I know our department auto screens for degrees when it comes to lead positions. Regardless, If you know your stuff, you'll never starve. Also be aware that the market matter considerably. You'll be in more demand in say D.C. or Atlanta, GA than you would in Dothan, Alabama or Tifton, GA.