22blades
The “shi..yard” that Jan S referred to is Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. One of the largest employers in the region. It has a variety of apprenticeships where you can, if you take the initiative to, gain advanceable and/or marketable skills. Before retiring from there, my father was involved in some of these trade programs alongside the various trade unions. When I lived in the area, I had truly amazing friends and neighbors that spun off their knowledge to me (to make me the gearhead that I am). One of the skills I learned was how to do big things with very little. Some of the work is some truly amazing, “big” stuff. When I was a high schooler, I had summer jobs in another naval shipyard. A truly amazing experience, especially if like working with your hands and mind. As a bonus, the cost of living will be markedly less on the Kitsap Peninsula.
Good luck to you and your family with your search. My only advice; Get lucky, but be prepared to get lucky when the chance crosses paths.