Precision Metalworking at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Pulaski

Pulaski, TN · Public · Certificate · Precision Metal Working

a smaller institution with 264 students in Pulaski, TN.

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $38,268 track close to the $36,869 national median for Precision Metalworking programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.

Some AI exposure exists in Precision Metalworking's career paths, with 13% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 17% gap from the optimistic case.

Ranked #214 of 355 Precision Metalworking programs, Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Pulaski falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.

Earnings grow from $38,268 to $46,690 over five years — a 22% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.

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

53 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
51
Low End
53
Score
53
High End
Earnings $38,268/yr (4% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$484K
5.1% annual growth
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.

Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$46,690
22% growth from Year 1

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

Explore what Precision Metalworking graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 355 programs nationwide.

Read the full Precision Metalworking career guide →

Compare & Explore

Precision Metalworking Overview

Precision Metalworking at Other Schools

Other Majors at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Pulaski

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Pulaski's Precision Metalworking program score?
At 53/100, 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.
Is Precision Metalworking from Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Pulaski a future-proof career choice?
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 I learn Precision Metalworking through an apprenticeship instead of Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Pulaski?
The DOL recognizes 131 apprenticeship pathways related to Precision Metalworking. For students weighing Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Pulaski'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 →