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Not all companies. There are definitely places that are looking for your talents and that know how to appreciate them. Getting the job done in time and with a smile is a very large asset and should lead to some really good references.

I'd avoid applying for positions directly but concentrate on leveraging your network of past employers who will always know more people in the position of needing someone to simply deliver the goods. Applying for positions directly will work against you because you are setting yourself up for comparison in a way that does not show off your most valuable skills.

Google is definitely interested in that.

Last time I checked, most of their programming job postings had something along the lines of "Minimum: Tertiary Qualification/Degree ; Preferred: PHD/Masters".

I work for them without a degree.

Unfortunately I think the industry has to many in it that are just doing it for the $$ and learned their skils by rote and hence are recruiting people like them.