PipeDown wrote:
Many "born to be" engineers complete their apprenticeship (gain essential
skills and concepts) in the form of a hobby while in high school.

Good point. High school can provide initiation, but many of the
programs that we enjoyed are no longer part of the curriculum. One of
the essential tools of communications within construction and
manufacturing industries, mechanical drafting skill, is no longer
taught.
Shop classes in woods and metals have virtually disappeared from the
inner cities.
Derived in a cognitive approach, apprenticeship qualifies the
individual to enter a chosen profession as a journeyman with real,
substantial capabilities.

LivingTrade.org
http:/groups.google.com/group/senior-apprentice