Precision Metalworking at Marshalltown Community College

Marshalltown, IA · Public · Certificate · Precision Metal Working

a compact campus enrolling 868 students in Marshalltown, IA.

Program Analysis

Marshalltown Community College's Precision Metalworking graduates start at $45,972/yr — above the $36,869 national average, though not by a wide margin.

With a 96.1x 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.

At #32 of 355 programs, this Precision Metalworking program outperforms the majority of its peers. The top 10% ranking reflects consistently above-average outcomes.

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

69 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
68
Low End
69
Score
70
High End
Earnings $45,972/yr (25% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$527K
3.0% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
99.4x
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)
$5,304
Out-of-state: $5,808

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

See the full career breakdown for Precision Metalworking — job titles, salary ranges, and growth projections for graduates from Marshalltown Community College and 354 other schools.

Read the full Precision Metalworking career guide →

Compare & Explore

Precision Metalworking Overview

Precision Metalworking at Other Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does Marshalltown Community College's Precision Metalworking program score?
At 69/100, Marshalltown Community College's Precision Metalworking program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
How AI-proof is a career in Precision Metalworking?
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.
Should I consider an apprenticeship over a Precision Metalworking program at Marshalltown Community College?
The DOL recognizes 131 apprenticeship pathways related to Precision Metalworking. For students weighing Marshalltown Community College's program cost against alternatives, apprenticeships offer zero-tuition entry with paid employment from day one.
How many job openings are there for Precision Metalworking graduates?
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 →