I don't have any academic qualifications worth a spit, but I *do* spend a lot of time (and money) improving and increasing my skills...and I'm trusted by my employers to service all their data requirements and (hopefully) I justify their trust in me. In my opinon, training yourself and investing time and effort in furthering your knowledge is essential. Being able to 'get into the trenches' and do the work at hand is way more important than any number of pieces of paper.

Just my 'tuppence worth.