Pat, some poeple see a downside to seeing a bluecollar trade as a "profession". Calling something a "profession" usually means you will pay a higher premuim for that work and those who perform it will consider it a "specialty".
If you downplay welding, pipefitting, sheet metal work, mechanical work and so on as something any idiot can do it makes it easier to insist that one person do it all. And, quite possibly, at a lower wage than a "professional" would expect.
When I first entered the workforce, it was full of professional machinists, mechanics, welders and so on. Now, nearly everywhere you go they expect all of these things to be done by the same folks.......Fewer employees at lower wages. That's what it's all about.
Problem is, it doesn't work very well. I'm a pretty good mechanic, a fair welder and know a few basic things about electricity.............can't machine worth a shit. Most guys are a one trick pony. That's not being mean, it's just a statement of fact.
But, try telling that to management. They seem to think things will always work as they demand them to........
Regards,
Dave