Precision Metalworking at St Cloud Technical and Community College
with a smaller student body of 2,808 in Saint Cloud, MN.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $49,636 put St Cloud Technical and Community College's Precision Metalworking program 35% above the national median of $36,869 — one of the higher-earning programs in this field.
The 126.3x 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 23% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Precision Metalworking graduates.
With first-year pay of $49,636 far exceeding the $9,500 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Ranked #10 out of 355 programs, St Cloud Technical and Community College's Precision Metalworking program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $49,636 to $64,258 shows 29% 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
Explore what Precision Metalworking graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 355 programs nationwide.