Did they possess marketable skills in multiple industries? Are they willing to go to where a job is? I have earned several college degrees, moved to two states, studied and earned two professional licenses, and have never had any trouble finding multiple offers in high-tech (and not so high-tech) industries. I don't see the unemployment. I have worked in manufacturing, engineering and consulting. It's difficult to find good people.
You want to make $80K a year with no education, attaching bolts on an assembly line - good luck. Are you willing to learn the skills that are in demand today and learn something else in a few years. You'll have no problems.