You should tell those IT guys to head for Tidewater or DC area. If they can get a clearance, there’s always work.
It’s not specifically IT guys but I’m seeing more professionals working in blue collar now. Two blocks away from where I live is a guy who was in engineering at Quimonda when they closed 14 months ago and now he’s laying mulch for the neighborhood while he’s looking.
It’s admirable and I like supporting anyone in a situation like that. Nothing wrong with getting dirty.