There are lots of people that got into the field early and didn't need any formal training or certifications. I see a lot of people say CompTIA certifications are pointless too but if it's so easy then why do they never bother to get certified? My guess is that a lot of people wouldn't not be able to pass without studying.

Certifications should be just as important as experience. Just because someone managed to be in the right place at the right time when tech was just getting started and as a result has 20+ years of experience doesn't mean they know everything, especially if they didn't bother to do any certifications.

Experience makes it easier for people to get hired and it allows them to make more money. But if they make great money, there is minimal incentive to learn anything new.