The over paid oil workers had a good run while every one else suffered. Hopefully they didn’t squander those big pay checks. It’s the customers’ turn for a little break. If the low oil prices last more than five years I’ll feel bad for them.
I am a journeyman electrician in the oil field, and while I make a good living, I am not overpaid. That is simply your opinion. We deal with a dangerous environment, dangerous roads, and very complex automation and programming.
I am sorry if you have experienced hardship, but there are many jobs available. This downturn has not affected me at all, nor will it, still hiring like mad.
A popular bumper sticker in the oil belt after a boom/bust:
"Please, Lord, let there be one more oil boom.
I promise not to p!$$ it away this time."