Which is best, a vocational-technical school or a 4-year degree?

I really think that with a question like this you have to examine what the individual's goals are. As far as finding a job or career that will pay the bills and allow you to live comfortably, both are more than capable of providing that opportunity. What makes you happy? What fulfills you? What are you going to be okay with doing? I do think that there has been a pish in recent years towards traditional four year degrees and I think that it has definitely screwed over a lot of people. There are people that justg are not cut out for four year college degrees. That isn't to say that they a stupid, there are numerous factors that just don't jive with them being successful that route. On that same token, many people just aren't fulfilled by doing the kinds of things allowed by a technical degree. I have friends that make more money than I will probably ever make and they have a few technical certs and thats it and they are happy. I'm going to school to be a school teacher, I will never make millions doing it but it makes me happy. Just have to figure out what sounds best for that person and what they are looking for out of life.

What is your plan? Degree's are nice but remember- college grads are still going to pay a plumber $21/hr, and garages still charge you $90-150/hr for someone to fix your car.

The education establishment would have you believe you can only be successful if you have a four year degree. Many people who would be far better suited pursuing a Vo-Tech career option instead go deeply in debt to get a four year degree they can't use. I went the Vo-Tech route, jumped around to a couple jobs with a bad attitude, got out and laid stone for a couple years, and then joined the Infantry. I couldn't go back into stone masonry after getting out because of a combat related injury that made it tough to climb ladders, so I dusted off my tool box and started turning wrenches again. The change in attitude because fixing cars was way better than getting shot at and blown up has lead to a productive and enjoyable career, and a fairly lucrative middle class one at that, until I took a pay cut to get into team building and management again.

I'm with Mike Rowe on this one. Find what you are good at, and be passionate about it. You don't have to have a four year degree to be successful. I also agree with SGT Joseph Gunderson's assessment.