I would also recommend looking at some other jobs for the mechanically inclined. I'm not sure how old you are, but it's never too late to try something new, do not get stuck in this mentality.
I wish you'd have posted about this a week ago. I'm 32 and just got my test scheduled for the elevator mechanics Union. $43 an hour and full health care and pension company paid. Look into it.
Point is, there are a lot of options out there you don't usually think about, and quality tradesmen willing to work are in short supply.