My Dad started sweeping floors at a collision shop at 16. Next thing he knew, he was 20-21 and he was pulling frames, doing body work, and painting. He then turned 33 and bought the salvage yard. 17 years later he is still here, and I am 25, and I have been year for 10 years. He really climbed the ladder!! I followed his footsteps and I don't regret it on step of the way.
So I suggest getting into some sort of trade, or business, and stick with it your whole life. This day and age it is hard. Most people don't have careers anymore. They might have a new job every 3-5 years with this nations economy.