Said money isn't everything. And I know a number of others who have said the same thing. If that was the case then every A&P would be working at the airlines and package delivery. Personally I'd work utility again but the schedule was getting old, however, the money was better than the airlines.
As to business in the GOM, seems with the 10 year contracts being signed by the majors there will be gainful employement for A&Ps well into the future. At least long enough until I retire. Curious, where do you work?