Not sure what trade you guys do, but by the 2 year mark as an electrician I was hardly considered a new guy, and had most of the skills required. The next 8 years was learning every edge case that could pop up.
By year 5 though I was easily fine all out on my own. Most journeyman only need about 4 years of experience, and they're qualified to go start their own company.
No debt, little schooling, all of which was paid for by my companies, and an extremely valuable life skill. (Not to mention i get paid extremely well) Join a trade kids.
More like 2 years, less than a degree requires.