Precision Metalworking at Northeast Iowa Community College
a smaller institution with 1,736 students in Calmar, IA.
Program Analysis
At $43,588 per year, Precision Metalworking graduates from Northeast Iowa Community College earn slightly above the $36,869 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.
The 82.4x 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 risk is moderate — 13% task exposure — and the 22% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Precision Metalworking graduates.
The median debt load of $5,446 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
Ranked #69 out of 355 programs, Northeast Iowa Community College's Precision Metalworking program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $43,588 to $55,764 shows 28% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.
With 131 registered apprenticeships mapped to Precision Metalworking, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
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
Precision Metalworking opens doors to multiple career tracks. Our pillar guide covers every mapped occupation with salary data and AI resilience ratings.