I've worked in all of those fields. I know exactly how much easier programming is than roofing and sanding boats and unloading trucks. Nevertheless, outside of a select few, most programmers are assembly line workers with better chairs.
Agree. It's why I got out of full-time, on-site programming. If I'm going to be doing it, it's going to be on my terms. And the freelance market has been pretty responsive to that.