For most of the essential trades there is a upward path in building the needed skill set.
(IE, Carpentry, construction, store managers and others). Some of these are thought to
be so essential to a thriving community that they are being introduced to the students
while they are still in high school. Employers needing these skills can hire prospects
off the street, or more likely, propsects with some amount of initial training, and have
them train on the job. (IE electricians, plumbing, assembly, et. al)

In that computer programming is a trade, having a certain skill set, and some who
may be 'talented' or not, should there not be a similar OJT mechanism in place?

It may be different in other parts of the country (I've seen as much) but where I
live, and look for positions, even the majority of entry level positions are looking
to be filled by degreed graduates with 2+ years of experience. It just seems to
me that by requiring advanced training for entry level positions is going to do nothing
but keep payroll costs high. It would be better for employers and the industry if
larger corporations help foot the bill in the area of appropreate training....

Are there any employers taking the inititive to develop On the Job Training
programs to help increase the pool of skilled workers in this field?

There doesn't seem to be any near me, but if you know of some in your area,
it may help me to target their sister firms in my area...

Any help is aprpreciated
LFS