Precision Metalworking at Southwest Texas Junior College
with a smaller student body of 3,170 in Uvalde, TX.
Program Analysis
Southwest Texas Junior College's Precision Metalworking graduates start at $16,469/yr, trailing the $36,869 national average by 55%. The program's value hinges on affordability.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 95.0x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Precision Metalworking programs nationally.
The 40% gap between optimistic and pessimistic AI scenarios is notable. With 13% of typical tasks exposed to automation, AI adoption could meaningfully shift career outcomes for Precision Metalworking graduates.
Ranked #258 of 355 Precision Metalworking programs, Southwest Texas Junior College falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Five-year earnings of $40,790 show a 148% jump from the $16,469 starting point — strong upward trajectory suggesting real career acceleration in this trade.
Precision Metalworking offers 131 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 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 Southwest Texas Junior College and 354 other schools.