I am very surprised your friends didn't find work as Engineers. I get a daily email that lists numerous job listings for Engineers. Your friends may have to relocate, but I'd be very surprised if they can't find engineering jobs.
And as far as the person with the new IT degree, don't get discouraged. Your IT degree will help you get your first IT job and then you can progress from there. I've always said just find a job that you enjoy because if you enjoy it, you will do it well and if you do it well, you will advance. Good luck.