Precision Metalworking at Southern Arkansas University Tech

Camden, AR · Public · Certificate · Precision Metal Working

a compact campus enrolling 663 students in Camden, AR.

Program Analysis

Southern Arkansas University Tech's Precision Metalworking graduates start at $26,001/yr, trailing the $36,869 national average by 29%. The program's value hinges on affordability.

Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 61.5x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Precision Metalworking programs nationally.

AI disruption models show minimal impact on this program's career paths. The gap between optimistic and pessimistic scenarios is just 9% — this trade's hands-on core resists automation.

Ranked #234 of 355 Precision Metalworking programs, Southern Arkansas University Tech falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.

Precision Metalworking offers 131 registered apprenticeship pathways — an unusually broad set of earn-while-you-learn alternatives to the classroom track.

52 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
51
Low End
52
Score
52
High End
Earnings $26,001/yr (-29% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$298K
3.0% annual growth
Earnings Multiple
63.6x
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
$4,685

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

Other Majors at Southern Arkansas University Tech

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TradeSchoolOutlook Score for Precision Metalworking at Southern Arkansas University Tech?
At 52/100, the score looks reasonable — but Precision Metalworking is a high-scoring trade overall. Compared to peers, this program's earnings and ROI fall below the median.
How AI-proof is a career in Precision Metalworking?
Precision Metalworking rates as "AI-Proof" for AI resilience. With only 13% of tasks exposed to automation, the trade's physical demands provide a natural shield against AI displacement.
Can you still earn well with Precision Metalworking from Southern Arkansas University Tech?
Starting salary is one data point. If Southern Arkansas University Tech's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Should I consider an apprenticeship over a Precision Metalworking program at Southern Arkansas University Tech?
The DOL recognizes 131 apprenticeship pathways related to Precision Metalworking. For students weighing Southern Arkansas University Tech's program cost against alternatives, apprenticeships offer zero-tuition entry with paid employment from day one.
How many job openings are there for Precision Metalworking graduates?
The very large job market (164,200 annual openings) works in favor of Precision Metalworking graduates. The national outlook is driven by infrastructure investment and steady replacement demand as workers retire, though regional variation matters.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →