Precision Metalworking at Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park

Melrose Park, IL · Private for-profit · Certificate · Precision Metal Working

a compact campus enrolling 1,345 students in Melrose Park, IL.

Program Analysis

Graduates earn $39,408/yr, edging above the $36,869 national average for Precision Metalworking — a modest premium that suggests solid regional demand for this trade.

Some AI exposure exists in Precision Metalworking's career paths, with 13% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 17% gap from the optimistic case.

Ranked #203 of 355 Precision Metalworking programs, Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.

Earnings grow from $39,408 to $48,123 over five years — a 22% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.

Precision Metalworking offers 131 registered apprenticeship pathways — an unusually broad set of earn-while-you-learn alternatives to the classroom track.

53 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
52
Low End
53
Score
54
High End
Earnings $39,408/yr (7% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$498K
5.1% 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)
$48,123
22% 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 Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park's Precision Metalworking program score?
A score of 53/100 reflects decent absolute metrics, but Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park trails the majority of Precision Metalworking programs on relative rankings. Context matters more than the raw number.
How safe is Precision Metalworking from automation?
Highly resilient. Precision Metalworking careers are fundamentally hands-on — they require physical presence and manual skill that AI cannot replicate. Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park graduates retain 22 of 24 viable career paths even under conservative assumptions.
What apprenticeship pathways exist for Precision Metalworking graduates?
The DOL recognizes 131 apprenticeship pathways related to Precision Metalworking. For students weighing Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park's program cost against alternatives, apprenticeships offer zero-tuition entry with paid employment from day one.
Will Precision Metalworking graduates from Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park find jobs?
Job availability for Precision Metalworking is strong — 164,200 positions open annually across the mapped career paths. For Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park graduates specifically, local market conditions in IL may shift the picture.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →