Precision Metalworking at Clark College

Vancouver, WA · Public · Associate Degree · Precision Metal Working

with a smaller student body of 4,699 in Vancouver, WA.

Program Analysis

At $46,609 per year, Precision Metalworking graduates from Clark College significantly outpace the $36,869 national average for this trade, reflecting strong employer demand for this program's graduates.

The 53.4x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.

With only 13% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, the scenario spread is tight at 3%. Career paths for Precision Metalworking are among the more automation-resistant trades we analyze.

Ranked #122 out of 355 programs, Clark College's Precision Metalworking offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.

Earnings growth is modest: $46,609 to $49,937 over five years (7% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.

With 131 registered apprenticeships mapped to Precision Metalworking, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.

62 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
62
Low End
62
Score
63
High End
Earnings $46,609/yr (26% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$504K
1.7% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
54.4x
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)
$9,264
Out-of-state: $20,760
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$49,937
7% growth from Year 1

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

Explore what Precision Metalworking graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 355 programs nationwide.

Read the full Precision Metalworking career guide →

Compare & Explore

Precision Metalworking Overview

Precision Metalworking at Other Schools

Other Majors at Clark College

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TradeSchoolOutlook Score for Precision Metalworking at Clark College?
A score of 62/100 puts this program in competitive territory — solid outcomes, though not at the top of the Precision Metalworking field.
How safe is Precision Metalworking from automation?
This is one of the more automation-resistant trades. Precision Metalworking work requires physical skill and on-site presence — qualities AI cannot provide. Clark College's score of 62/100 reflects this durability.
Can I learn Precision Metalworking through an apprenticeship instead of Clark College?
Yes — 131 registered apprenticeship programs are mapped to Precision Metalworking career paths, including Cnc Operator - Milling. Apprenticeships offer paid on-the-job training as an alternative or complement to a program at Clark College.
Will Precision Metalworking graduates from Clark College find jobs?
At 164,200 annual openings, Precision Metalworking has a very large employment base. Clark College graduates benefit from broad demand, particularly given infrastructure investment and steady replacement demand as workers retire.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →