Being in a QA position, I can see a trend forming here!
I left as a Sgt in 1999, after 24 years, and I am still in the Aircraft Maintenance trade, but on SL/winco pay, and doing at least OC Eng's job - mainly because I can't find where Roadster280 works!
The grass out here is very much the same as inside, quite green, with many puddles, and mossy or bare areas. But, if you watch where your going, it can be very green all the way.
You can work to you own ability/ambition and people talk to you - not to your shoulder badges!