>Why does a semi-skilled laborer ( with average 10 years on job ) rate an average of $54 an hour ( with benefits it is >actually higher )? I know educated software types would like that salary.

One of my favorite classes in college was Labor Economics taught by a guy by the name of Richard Perleman

One of the most shocking things I remember hearing in that class is that a 6 year apprentice program at a major manufacturer equates to a college degree :-)

And when you look at a lot of "college educated jobs" the full cost, benefits etc, runs close to "an average of $54 an hour " these days.