Just my opinion, but it’s not that college is overrated, but there’s no doubt that tech and trade schools are WAY underrated. With all of my hobbies and penchant for tinkering, it’s the route I should have probably gone, though I love telling my students that college was the best 16 years of my life! It’s just so different now. Tough to get a degree these days without a mountain of debt. Sounds like your son is level-headed beyond his years, and a great opportunity for you to work alongside him.