I hear mixed reviews about the pros and cons of having a degree in our field from both sides of the fence. After some extensive but completely non-collegiate Facebook research, I have put together a bell curve of the degrees of production.
- F Level = Jackasses and Douchebags. This level is reserved for the technicians who have zero regard for our craft. They show no initiative, and their work ethic is that of a cheese log.
- D Level = Incompetent, Lazy and yet Cocky. These are the guys that only last a short while in our business. Their cockiness far exceeds their competence.
- C Level = Strong Work Ethic. Work ethic is the most important thing to making it in this business. The C Level crew is the first example of someone who will be able to tough it out for several years.
- B Level = Strong Work Ethic and a Good Attitude. To attain B level status, people need to have done all of the things that C level has done except they need to have attained a higher rank thanks to their work ethic and winning attitude.
- A Level = Strong Work Ethic, Good Attitude and Experience. The A-list crew has done everything that the C and B level crew has done but they have been doing it for more years than they need to put on a résumé. They are talented, educated, hard working and most importantly, experienced.
- A+ level = All That and a Little Comfort. The only thing that separates the A crew from the A+ crew is a university degree. Not because it makes them any better at their job but because it provides them with a security blanket. People can continue to work at the A level for many years, but eventually their feet and back wear down from being in the trenches. They need a way out. This is where that piece of paper becomes an asset.
Disclaimer: I am not saying that all college graduates are at the A+ level. They aren’t. I am saying that in order to receive an A+ you need to have gone to school to get it.
—Excerpted from “ Degrees of Production,” LD-at-Large, PLSN, Nov. 2016 by Chris Lose
