I'm in software, but have built 3 houses and did all my own electrical. If I had to pick a blue collar job (I've done most residential trades) I'd pick electrician. While I was hanging and taping drywall to pay for school I was sure I was on the right track by going to school and getting into software.

I couldn't imagine working these jobs when I was older - that was enough to steer me away from any construction.