I have been a professional seamstress, costumer for the ballet, and alterations specialist for bridal gowns at David's Bridal (a terrible company to work for!) So I've had a lifetime of sewing before I ever found quilting.
Also I have always taught classes... not full time school classes, but knitting, sewing, and mostly fitness classes. Still teaching several formats of fitness (yoga, water exercise, cardio and Silver Sneaker classes for senior citizens.) I find it highly rewarding to work with older adults to help them maintain their health.