Vehicle Repair Technology at Kirkwood Community College
enrolling 7,438 students in Cedar Rapids, IA.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $44,896 at Kirkwood Community College come in 16% above the national median of $38,662 for Vehicle Repair Technology programs.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 46.1x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Vehicle Repair Technology programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Vehicle Repair Technology's career paths, with 14% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 17% gap from the optimistic case.
With first-year pay of $44,896 far exceeding the $10,000 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
At #144 of 409 Vehicle Repair Technology programs, Kirkwood Community College scores above the median — competitive but not a standout.
Earnings grow from $44,896 to $54,430 over five years — a 21% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
Vehicle Repair Technology offers 64 registered apprenticeship pathways — an unusually broad set of earn-while-you-learn alternatives to the classroom track.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Vehicle Repair Technology graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and electronics installers and repairers, transportation equipment | $82,730 | +6.1% | 76% |
| Avionics technicians | $81,390 | +8.2% | 76% |
| Aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians | $79,830 | +8.1% | 68% |
Vehicle Repair Technology Career Guide
What can you do with a Vehicle Repair Technology credential from Kirkwood Community College? Our career guide maps every occupation path with earnings and growth data.
Compare & Explore
Vehicle Repair Technology Overview
Vehicle Repair Technology at Other Schools
Other Majors at Kirkwood Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.