Precision Metalworking at Montana State University Billings

Billings, MT · Public · Associate Degree · Precision Metal Working

with a smaller student body of 2,710 in Billings, MT.

Program Analysis

At $41,875 per year, Precision Metalworking graduates from Montana State University Billings earn slightly above the $36,869 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.

The 34.6x 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 9%. Career paths for Precision Metalworking are among the more automation-resistant trades we analyze.

Ranked #175 out of 355 programs, Montana State University Billings's Precision Metalworking offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.

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

55 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
55
Low End
55
Score
56
High End
Earnings $41,875/yr (14% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$480K
3.0% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
35.8x
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)
$13,412
Out-of-state: $42,694

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 Montana State University Billings

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 55/100 TradeSchoolOutlook Score mean for Precision Metalworking at Montana State University Billings?
At 55/100, Montana State University Billings'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?
Highly resilient. Precision Metalworking careers are fundamentally hands-on — they require physical presence and manual skill that AI cannot replicate. Montana State University Billings graduates retain 22 of 24 viable career paths even under conservative assumptions.
Should I consider an apprenticeship over a Precision Metalworking program at Montana State University Billings?
There are 131 registered apprenticeships connected to Precision Metalworking occupations, such as Cnc Operator - Milling and Cnc Operator - Milling And Turning. The earn-while-you-learn model means no tuition debt and immediate income, though the training period is typically longer.
Will Precision Metalworking graduates from Montana State University Billings find jobs?
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 →