Precision Metalworking at Northeast Community College
a smaller institution with 2,464 students in Norfolk, NE.
Program Analysis
At $38,353/yr, Precision Metalworking graduates from Northeast Community College land near the $36,869 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.
With a 137.5x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
Career paths for Precision Metalworking carry above-average AI exposure (13% of tasks). The 32% scenario spread means the difference between optimistic and pessimistic outcomes is substantial.
The median debt load of $5,500 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
Northeast Community College ranks #47 among 355 Precision Metalworking programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
A 42% earnings increase from $38,353 to $54,402 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.
The 131 apprenticeship pathways connected to Precision Metalworking reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.
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 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% |
Precision Metalworking Career Guide
See the full career breakdown for Precision Metalworking — job titles, salary ranges, and growth projections for graduates from Northeast Community College and 354 other schools.