Precision Metalworking at Universal Technical Institute-West Texas

Austin, TX · Private for-profit · Certificate · Precision Metal Working

a smaller institution with 955 students in Austin, TX.

Program Analysis

Universal Technical Institute-West Texas's Precision Metalworking graduates start at $39,141/yr — above the $36,869 national average, though not by a wide margin.

The 9% spread between best and worst-case AI scenarios signals strong resilience. Most careers in Precision Metalworking involve physical, hands-on work that current AI cannot replicate.

Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $6,855 in median debt clears fast against $39,141 in annual earnings.

A #231 ranking among 355 Precision Metalworking programs places Universal Technical Institute-West Texas in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The 131 apprenticeship pathways connected to Precision Metalworking reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.

53 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
52
Low End
53
Score
54
High End
Earnings $39,141/yr (6% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$449K
3.0% 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.

Median Debt at Graduation
$6,855
2.1 months of Year 1 earnings

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 Universal Technical Institute-West Texas

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 53/100 TradeSchoolOutlook Score mean for Precision Metalworking at Universal Technical Institute-West Texas?
This program scores 53/100 — 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?
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.
How affordable is Precision Metalworking at Universal Technical Institute-West Texas?
At $6,855 in median debt, Precision Metalworking graduates from Universal Technical Institute-West Texas carry minimal financial burden. The debt-to-income ratio of 0.2x is well below the trade program average.
Can I learn Precision Metalworking through an apprenticeship instead of Universal Technical Institute-West Texas?
The DOL recognizes 131 apprenticeship pathways related to Precision Metalworking. For students weighing Universal Technical Institute-West Texas's program cost against alternatives, apprenticeships offer zero-tuition entry with paid employment from day one.
Will Precision Metalworking graduates from Universal Technical Institute-West Texas find jobs?
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 →