Precision Metalworking at Central Carolina Technical College

Sumter, SC · Public · Certificate · Precision Metal Working

a smaller institution with 2,388 students in Sumter, SC.

Program Analysis

Central Carolina Technical College's Precision Metalworking program produces graduates earning $32,196/yr — within striking distance of the $36,869 national average for this trade.

With a 62.5x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 9% spread between best and worst-case AI scenarios signals strong resilience. Most careers in Precision Metalworking involve physical, hands-on work that current AI cannot replicate.

A #155 ranking among 355 Precision Metalworking programs places Central Carolina Technical College in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The 131 apprenticeship pathways connected to Precision Metalworking reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.

57 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
56
Low End
57
Score
57
High End
Earnings $32,196/yr (-13% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$369K
3.0% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
64.6x
10-year earnings ÷ tuition
Viable Career Paths
22 of 24
Occupations with strong AI resilience

Projected 10-Year Earnings

Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.

Program Tuition (In-State)
$5,715
Out-of-state: $9,016

Top Career Paths

Top career paths for Precision Metalworking graduates by median salary.

Career Path Median Salary Growth AI-ProofAI
Computer numerically controlled tool programmers $65,670 +12.8% 20%
Tool and die makers $63,180 -10.8% 81%
Model makers, metal and plastic $62,700 -18.2% 84%
Computer numerically controlled tool programmers
$65,670
+12.8% growth 20% AI-proof
Tool and die makers
$63,180
-10.8% growth 81% AI-proof
Model makers, metal and plastic
$62,700
-18.2% growth 84% AI-proof

View all 24 career paths with full salary data →

Precision Metalworking Career Guide

From day-one roles to senior positions, Precision Metalworking careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering skilled trades.

Read the full Precision Metalworking career guide →

Compare & Explore

Precision Metalworking Overview

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TradeSchoolOutlook Score for Precision Metalworking at Central Carolina Technical College?
At 57/100, Central Carolina Technical College's Precision Metalworking program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Will AI replace Precision Metalworking jobs?
AI resilience is a strength here. Only 13% of Precision Metalworking tasks overlap with AI capabilities, and 22 of 24 career paths remain viable even in our most conservative scenario.
What apprenticeship pathways exist for Precision Metalworking graduates?
There are 131 registered apprenticeships connected to Precision Metalworking occupations, such as Cnc Operator - Milling and Cnc Operator - Milling And Turning. The earn-while-you-learn model means no tuition debt and immediate income, though the training period is typically longer.
Will Precision Metalworking graduates from Central Carolina Technical College find jobs?
The career paths mapped to Precision Metalworking have roughly 164,200 combined annual openings nationally, making this a very large job market. Demand is driven by infrastructure investment and steady replacement demand as workers retire.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →