Precision Metalworking at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville

Shelbyville, TN · Public · Certificate · Precision Metal Working

with a smaller student body of 366 in Shelbyville, TN.

Program Analysis

Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville's Precision Metalworking graduates start at $40,605/yr — above the $36,869 national average, though not by a wide margin.

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 29% gap from the optimistic case.

Ranked #189 of 355 Precision Metalworking programs, Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.

Earnings grow from $40,605 to $55,781 over five years — a 37% 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.

54 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
53
Low End
54
Score
55
High End
Earnings $40,605/yr (10% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$596K
8.3% 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)
$55,781
37% 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

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 Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TradeSchoolOutlook Score for Precision Metalworking at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville?
This program scores 54/100 — a respectable number in isolation, but it ranks in the bottom half of Precision Metalworking programs nationally. The field is competitive, and stronger options exist.
How AI-proof is a career in Precision Metalworking?
AI resilience is a strength here. Only 13% of Precision Metalworking tasks overlap with AI capabilities, and 22 of 24 career paths remain viable even in our most conservative scenario.
Can I learn Precision Metalworking through an apprenticeship instead of Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville?
Yes — 131 registered apprenticeship programs are mapped to Precision Metalworking career paths, including Cnc Operator - Milling. Apprenticeships offer paid on-the-job training as an alternative or complement to a program at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville.
What's the job market like for Precision Metalworking from Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville?
At 164,200 annual openings, Precision Metalworking has a very large employment base. Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Shelbyville graduates benefit from broad demand, particularly given infrastructure investment and steady replacement demand as workers retire.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →