Vehicle Repair Technology at Western Dakota Technical College
a compact campus enrolling 733 students in Rapid City, SD.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $38,031 track close to the $38,662 national median for Vehicle Repair Technology programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
With a 37.7x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
Career paths for Vehicle Repair Technology carry above-average AI exposure (14% of tasks). The 37% scenario spread means the difference between optimistic and pessimistic outcomes is substantial.
At $12,483 in median debt against $38,031 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
A #238 ranking among 409 Vehicle Repair Technology programs places Western Dakota Technical College in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The $38,031-to-$57,387 earnings arc over five years reflects a 51% gain — well above average career growth for trade school graduates.
The 64 apprenticeship pathways connected to Vehicle Repair Technology reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.
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 Vehicle Repair Technology graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and electronics installers and repairers, transportation equipment | $82,730 | +6.1% | 76% |
| Avionics technicians | $81,390 | +8.2% | 76% |
| Aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians | $79,830 | +8.1% | 68% |
Vehicle Repair Technology Career Guide
From day-one roles to senior positions, Vehicle Repair Technology careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering skilled trades.
Compare & Explore
Vehicle Repair Technology Overview
Vehicle Repair Technology at Other Schools
Other Majors at Western Dakota Technical College
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