Excuse me if I get a bit coy, but since Continuous Ignition mentioned me by name, I felt it was time to chime in.
Late thirties,
Got my A&P at age 22,
Hired on with Northwest Orient, hoping to be able to work in Asia, after working FBOs and a commuter airline (The first commuter). Worked shops and check hangars before moving to the line. Line Release Authorization on DC-9, MD-80, A320, B-727, B757, B747-100/200/200F/400, DC10-30/40, as well as Run/Taxi.
Working as an R&E (Avionics, Electrical, etc.) at a line hangar cleaning up after others, and freelancing on small airplanes. I love to troubleshoot problems. It may be my only redeeming value. I have met many competent mechanics from around the world, and hope to retire to live with my family in Thailand.
I am missing the old standards and pride the profession used to have. I have worked with many monster mechanics who have since retired, and owe them for instilling good work ethics in me, not always by subtle or socially acceptable methods .