Yes, you're quite right, in America and here in England, there are jobs like this. My issue is I'm already doing a manarger's job here in the military. However, to even get your foot in the door in the civilian sector, or have your resume seen, you have to have this "must have 4-year degree" block filled. They could care less if the degree is in basket weaving (Thus my pen name) It also doesn't matter that you have been doing the job for 10+ years, although this plus the degree are deal makers for the most part.

To get out and have to start as an apprentice all over again would be a stretch, not to mention I would be making very poor wages while doing so. If the job were interesting enough it may be worth it; I have learned to never say never. Thanks for the inputs, its always good to get other points of views.