So I got my associates in Computer drafting, and design, and got a job in Drafting and design. I've been working at the same company, doing the same thing, for the same pay for five years with no advancement, or pay increase insight. Now I'm trying to figure out what direction I should go in life. I want to continue what I'm doing now, but I want to broaden my skill set. I checked out some engineering programs at the local universities, and I'd rather sooner pull my teeth with a pair of pliers then put myself through that hell. I've always loved drawing and designing things, taking things apart and putting them back together etc...

For advancement you need those extra two years my friend, no way around it. You are stuck in the drafting room bullpen without it, as candidates with full degrees just go around you. Sucks I know but it is what it is, and I would suggest a plan over time to get that full degree. Heck, a few hours would have gotten it for you easily the last 5 years, already.

Also consider expanding your skill set with some hands on work, and put the applications and theories you have learned to practical hands on applications. I mean no better feather in your cap, or resume boost than actually building and servicing the stuff you have previously only drawn.

The bottomline is ambitiously applying yourself even if it's to something you rather not do, and doing well at it. The experience you gain from working on projects with craftsmen and vendors and the people who actually use the systems others design is worth a million times it's value in gold and opens up future opportunities for monetary advancements. Even doctors and lawyers have to keep up with the latest innovations in their field to keep a career going and GROWING, and engineering is no different.

If you are unwilling to learn more, and keep learning more, then you kiss the chance of advancement away before you get it. You have stopped growing, and so have your options.

So what do you think now?

Does your employer offer tuition reimbursement? If he does WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

The 4 year is definitely needed. Most in your line of work have a Masters as well. I look for that when I hire. That paper means you set a goal and you achieved that goal. It goes a long way in making the first step to saying you are the right candidate for the job. And two more years is nothing and easier