[21twelve]

My brother knows folks in the oil field. Yes there is a ripple-effect of pay increases all around. (The local kid that used to work at Arby’s is now pulling in triple on a water truck, etc.)

Also - he said they find it hard to find good people that will stay on. After the first paycheck or two, lots of the workers think they are rich and head off to party or pay off their trailer back home.

I know after my first paycheck as a kid (30+ years ago) on an oil-rig I felt the same way. (Although I didn’t quit) I bought a dozen roses and a gold necklace for my girlfriend of two years. (I told my mom and she got mad, and called it a waste. So I bought my mom a dozen roses too!) Looking back, I wish I had just stuck to the roses! (I wonder if she still has that necklace?)

[Smokin' Joe]

I'm out on a rig now, waiting for them to get back to bottom and circulate. What I do is somewhat specialized, and during really slow years I may end up doing other things, but in the good years it pays very well.

I know 'kids' who have started successful businesses, providing niche services for folks in the oil patch. I have heard of fast food wages in the $12-15/hr range. Those are 'leg up' jobs, and the turnover is high so advancement into management positions can happen pretty fast for those with talent.

For those who are willing to work hard, make a few contacts and move on to something better, the opportunity to pick up experience and a paycheck exists.