If the kid has a knack for coding (ie will be the top of his class at the coding bootcamp), then I'd consider it. But only with the intent of getting a Megacorp job and pursuing a 4 year degree on their dime. Once you have the degree, you're indistinguishable (or maybe considered 'better') than someone who was a full-time student.
Good point. Since I kept my options open and never completed college, a second chance came along when MegaCorp offered to pay for my undergrad. I declined. Even my boss "got it". I have kids I'm in my 30s, I'm well on my way to being financially independent. I learned all of this with only two semesters of college, and some of those classes I failed.
Now if MegaCorp offered to pay for my private pilot, sure. That doesn't really benefit megacorp, but hey they are paying for someone's education which is what they really want to do apparently.
I need to remind folks, a degree is no guarantee for success. It's the experiences people takeaway from that time that will likely lead into a successful or not successful career.
I never had money for college, that's what dad told me. Plus also told me I didn't have the grades. Looking back, my mom and dad chose to build there own nest egg instead of struggling with their kids college expenses.
It's interesting to look at really. Dad has no degree, but 2 of his 3 kids did get master's degrees, I am the child without the degree. I earn more than both my siblings (who are 4 and 8yrs older) and have more saved than they do, I'm not saying I'm happier, and to me life is about the pursuit of happiness, not money...but I'm certainly pretty happy.
I look at FIL, he is a retired Doc. both Dad and FIL are multi-millionaires. They are both happy.
My point is, there is no right way to make it in this world. But you need to align your kids goals and ambitions with reality and if you choose to help best position them for that. If that means covering college and you can afford to, righteous! If it means sending the boy off to take an oath, then nurture him for that.
Boot camps are not even the easy-in to IT, there is no guarantee they will get "hired" in either college or bootcamp scenario. One just costs a lot less for a reason.
I've worked alongside MIT, Harvard and UC Berkley grads. Honestly that Harvard grad was a waste of space, but he wasn't happy doing the work that I was happy doing. (he wasn't as technical and could not solution something for the life of him).
Sometimes the smartest guy in the room is the one who can actually turn the wrench, not the one who can tell you how to turn it. I am comfortable with that. When **** hits the fan, under pressure, you really need to be able to be the smartest guy in the room, or you will lose clout and turn into a cog.
Oh btw, college and high school did teach me to capitalize, and use commas etc...but I am a lazy typer with a broken pinky right now and don't concern myself since this is an internet forum.