There are plenty of “skilled” trades out there that those not cut out for college can learn and which have not been sent overseas - ever tried to get your furnace repaired by someone in Pakistan?
There is an apparent cultural stigmatism that is rampant in todays society where being too “white” has penalties in your neighborhood. But, that does not mean there are no opportunities - just people not willing to explore them.
I agree that “serious” welfare reform is needed on a country-wide basis, and having the father identified before any welfare is obtained is a great idea.
Agreed ... that is indeed the problem. Then again, you've got to make it respectable for folks to sign up to do them. Why do that, when it's easier to sell drugs, or be a gang-banger, or whatever?