Precision Metalworking at Kiamichi Technology Center-McAlester

McAlester, OK · Public · Certificate · Precision Metal Working

a smaller institution with 575 students in McAlester, OK.

Program Analysis

Starting salaries of $24,017/yr fall 35% below the $36,869 national median for Precision Metalworking. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.

The 19% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Precision Metalworking career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.

A #345 ranking among 355 Precision Metalworking programs places Kiamichi Technology Center-McAlester in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

A 24% earnings increase from $24,017 to $29,796 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

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

43 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
41
Low End
43
Score
43
High End
Earnings $24,017/yr (-35% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$310K
5.5% annual growth
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.

Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$29,796
24% 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

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

Precision Metalworking at Other Schools

Other Majors at Kiamichi Technology Center-McAlester

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Kiamichi Technology Center-McAlester's Precision Metalworking program score?
At 43/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Precision Metalworking programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Is Precision Metalworking from Kiamichi Technology Center-McAlester a future-proof career choice?
For Kiamichi Technology Center-McAlester graduates, AI risk is minimal. Precision Metalworking rated "AI-Proof" — 87% of the work involves hands-on skills that current AI simply can't perform.
Why are Precision Metalworking earnings lower at Kiamichi Technology Center-McAlester?
First-year earnings trail the national median, but starting salary isn't the full picture. Regional cost of living, career trajectory, and tuition cost all factor in. Check the five-year earnings data when available.
Can I learn Precision Metalworking through an apprenticeship instead of Kiamichi Technology Center-McAlester?
The DOL recognizes 131 apprenticeship pathways related to Precision Metalworking. For students weighing Kiamichi Technology Center-McAlester's program cost against alternatives, apprenticeships offer zero-tuition entry with paid employment from day one.
What's the job market like for Precision Metalworking from Kiamichi Technology Center-McAlester?
The very large job market (164,200 annual openings) works in favor of Precision Metalworking graduates. The national outlook is driven by infrastructure investment and steady replacement demand as workers retire, though regional variation matters.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →