The blue collar working class does not have the skill level to innovate and do R&D. However a well a paid blue color jobs represent a safety valve for the people who due to lack of academic ability, maturity, financial circumstance and other factors go to college. There are many who are book "dumb" but are very good with their hands. Many as they get older will acknowledge that they should have study harder because they do see the difference between the salaries of college educated and high school educated. That experience forms the basis for many blue collar parents to encourage their children to study hard and not miss the opportunity to go to college when their time comes. That is not going to happen if the government and corporate policies of this country encourages the destruction of their salaries and standard of living.
I agree with the sentiment of your post that those workers are important and should not be neglected. The leaders of business and government need to understand that the most vibrant economy will be a viable mix of low-tech, high-tech, and service activity. If the percentages are skewed too heavily in any sector, the stability of the system is lessened.
Look, all honest work is "good" work, in the sense that it maintains current levels and stimulates further growth through maintenance of the consumer class. The problem I have is that too often highly skilled workers are either thrown away (and along with them their knowledge) or are underemployed. We don't want research scientists and systems engineers flipping burgers. It's not good for them, the economy, or the country as a whole.