I work in the area. "Michiana" is a little better than the rest of the Michigan area for jobs and economics right now..but thats still a bit slow. What does the kid do? Construction is slow and manufacturing isnt doing so hot, even for skilled folks like machinists and techs. If I was looking for a "job" I'd head west to Wyoming or Montana. The energy (mining and well feilds) business is booming and lots of work is opening out there. If he needs to learn the trade side of an idustrry thats the place to be right now. ~Hill