I grew up with the notion that you find the faulty part(s) & carry out the necessary repair. I too worked for a very large manufacturer & carried out SMD repairs on a daily basis, & as such I try to still do as much as I can to keep from going too rusty.
It seems that college students these days don't have the faintest idea of what a single component does, let alone be able to desolder it (When I was last in college a chap behind me asked his colleague if the diode he had was polarised.....)
I also think the problem starts outside of any schooling. As a child there was always something doing at home be it electronic, mechanical or driven by an engine. This helps develop core skills that just can't be taught in a couple of years.
Anyway, back here, I still carry out component repairs on many items unless they are directly patient connected, which my Managers are very happy with as often the kit is turned around quicker than sending it back to the OEM & is often £K's cheaper.
