Environmental Control Technologies at Polaris Career Center
with a smaller student body of 230 in Middleburg Heights, OH.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $37,480/yr, roughly in line with the $38,197 national median for Environmental Control Technologies. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
Some AI exposure exists in Environmental Control Technologies's career paths, with 24% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 24% gap from the optimistic case.
With first-year pay of $37,480 far exceeding the $6,333 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Ranked #36 of 63 Environmental Control Technologies programs, Polaris Career Center falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Earnings grow from $37,480 to $48,745 over five years — a 30% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
Environmental Control Technologies offers 30 registered apprenticeship pathways — an unusually broad set of earn-while-you-learn alternatives to the classroom track.
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 Environmental Control Technologies graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering technologists and technicians, except drafters, all other | $77,390 | +1.5% | 76% |
| Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers | $59,810 | +8.1% | 89% |
| Environmental engineering technologists and technicians | $58,890 | +1.2% | 59% |
About Environmental Control Technologies Careers
Your career in environmental control begins with essential, hands-on work. One day, you could be in a homeowner's basement, using wrenches and a multimeter to diagnose and repair a furnace. The next, you might be on a commercial rooftop installing a new air conditioning unit, connecting ductwork and refrigerant lines. Alternatively, you could find yourself at a municipal water treatment plant, operating complex machinery, monitoring control panels, and testing water samples to ensure community safety. These are the core, in-demand jobs where you'll build your foundation.
Read the full Environmental Control Technologies career guide →
Compare & Explore
Environmental Control Technologies Overview
Environmental Control Technologies at Other Schools
Other Majors at Polaris Career Center
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.