Precision Metalworking at New Mexico State University-Grants

Grants, NM · Public · Associate Degree · Precision Metal Working

a smaller institution with 351 students in Grants, NM.

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $27,920 place New Mexico State University-Grants below the $36,869 national median for Precision Metalworking — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.

The 99.8x 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.

AI exposure is significant at 13% of job tasks, producing a 40% spread between best and worst-case decade earnings. The field isn't immune to disruption.

Ranked #141 out of 355 programs, New Mexico State University-Grants's Precision Metalworking offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.

Earnings growth from $27,920 to $50,881 over five years (82% increase) indicates that graduates in this trade see meaningful salary progression.

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

59 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
54
Low End
59
Score
60
High End
Earnings $27,920/yr (-24% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$490K
12.0% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
114.7x
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)
$4,272
Out-of-state: $8,544
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$50,881
82% 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

Precision Metalworking opens doors to multiple career tracks. Our pillar guide covers every mapped occupation with salary data and AI resilience ratings.

Read the full Precision Metalworking career guide →

Compare & Explore

Precision Metalworking Overview

Precision Metalworking at Other Schools

Other Majors at New Mexico State University-Grants

Frequently Asked Questions

How does New Mexico State University-Grants's Precision Metalworking program score?
This program scores 59/100, reflecting respectable but not exceptional financial outcomes for Precision Metalworking graduates.
How safe is Precision Metalworking from automation?
This is one of the more automation-resistant trades. Precision Metalworking work requires physical skill and on-site presence — qualities AI cannot provide. New Mexico State University-Grants's score of 59/100 reflects this durability.
Why are Precision Metalworking earnings lower at New Mexico State University-Grants?
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.
What apprenticeship pathways exist for Precision Metalworking graduates?
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 New Mexico State University-Grants find jobs?
The career paths mapped to Precision Metalworking have roughly 164,200 combined annual openings nationally, making this a very large job market. Demand is driven by infrastructure investment and steady replacement demand as workers retire.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →