Apologies RJ , I should have directed my response to Abrahn ; so you see I still have finger trouble despite all those licenses etc .
Agree with what you say , many have fallen by the wayside despite their academic prowess . In the US generally speaking a bachelors degree is needed to join a major airline or officers, military training . perhaps this is a recognition that a certain work ethic is required as evidence that you may pass the training . You alluded to tenacity and a will to succeed , quite right in my opinion !
One of the very best operators I ever flew with was trained as a carpenter and went to night school to attain A levels so that he might be “ selectable “ .. and he could put up shelves !