Precision Metalworking at Patrick & Henry Community College

Martinsville, VA · Public · Certificate · Precision Metal Working

a smaller institution with 1,411 students in Martinsville, VA.

Program Analysis

Patrick & Henry Community College's Precision Metalworking program produces graduates earning $37,030/yr — within striking distance of the $36,869 national average for this trade.

With a 84.5x 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.

A #107 ranking among 355 Precision Metalworking programs places Patrick & Henry Community College in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

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

63 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
62
Low End
63
Score
64
High End
Earnings $37,030/yr (0% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$425K
3.0% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
87.4x
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)
$4,858
Out-of-state: $10,861

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

From day-one roles to senior positions, Precision Metalworking careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering skilled trades.

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 Patrick & Henry Community College's Precision Metalworking program score?
At 63/100, Patrick & Henry Community College's Precision Metalworking program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
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. Patrick & Henry Community College's score of 63/100 reflects this durability.
Should I consider an apprenticeship over a Precision Metalworking program at Patrick & Henry Community College?
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 Patrick & Henry Community College find jobs?
With approximately 164,200 annual openings across mapped careers, Precision Metalworking offers a very large employment pool. Patrick & Henry Community College graduates enter a market shaped by infrastructure investment and steady replacement demand as workers retire.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →