There are routes to permanent residency that don't require a degree - basically the only routes that absolutely require it are EB2 'advanced degree', or using a degree as evidence of 'exceptional ability', EB3 'professional' and EB1b 'outstanding professors and researchers'. Admittedly EB2 is probably the standard route for H1B holders, but there's also EB1a and EB1c if you qualify, and there's always good old EB3 'skilled worker', if you have time on your hands, or EB2 'exceptional ability' based on non-academic evidence. Or try getting married to an American.