I recently had to drive up the east coast, and the Audible version of Quicksilver was my companion. You might think that would be a quick way to end up waking up with an airbag in your face, but Simon Prebble's reading of it is masterful, and a highly recommended way to enjoy it.

While I in no way want to undervalue the importance of good education, the original question was "Is it possible?" - and it most certainly is, particularly if you are willing to work in dangerous areas, perhaps through defense contracting.

In my shop, HR passes potential hires to us for a tech interview. While certificates are sometimes required depending on the position, they are not nearly as important as the interview itself. Degrees have never factored into the hiring process, unless we are reviewing for a project lead or other focus. System admins, Network admins, physical plant techs, etc - experience and motivation are key above all else.

Not everyone wants to work in [insert other-part-of-the-world here], or is cut out for the work (demanding hours, security clearances, medical screenings, etc) but the fact stands that you don't need a degree to find the position you are looking for.