Vocational education classes disappearing across nation

Experts say parents want children to attend college

And steer them away from vocational education

As some students struggle to pass math, no time for electronics or drawing

Also, auto shops can cost cash-strapped schools thousands

Other industries besides autos suffer w/ lack of welders and other skills

But those who stick it out can earn big bucks

High schoolers earn $20K at Wagonwork Collision in VA

But after 5 years can earn $75K; 1 worker makes $100K

"The image prevails that vocational classes are dummy classes. But you know what? We're always going to need people who can cut your hair or fix your car." -- Kathleen Kunze, head of career and technical education, Prince William schools (VA)

"It's a difficult sell. So there's just not enough interest in welding these days. We can't even fill the collision repair course." -- Kunze

"Finding people with the right skills is very challenging. We've said we've got a problem, but the schools just don't seem interested." -- Marianne V. Pastor, VP, Williams Industries

"And there's a labor crunch. When I was in school, kids liked to work on cars. Now they want to play computer games." -- Michael Anderson, owner, Wagonwork Collision Center, Alexandria, VA