I repair forklifts and other heavy machinery. I have a very strong resume and experience. So I've had 4 interviews, all of which they seemed really excited I walked in the door. Then they ask how much I want. I tell them at least $30/hr and their faces drop. 30 is not unheard of for this kind of job, the senior guys make more than that sometimes. These companies have raised their customer billing rates, and parts mark up significantly in the last 3 years. Why should wages be the only thing NOT affected by inflation. I'll keep looking till someone's willing to play ball. And hopefully these companies will learn and give the next guy a decent offer, if they can even find another decent candidate. Idk if I'm making a difference but one place I interviewed did change their ad and post a pay range.