Plumbing at Berk Trade and Business School

At just over $22,000 in first-year earnings, Berk Trade graduates face a rough start—landing in the 5th percentile nationally for plumbing programs. However, the trajectory tells a different story: earnings jump 62% to nearly $37,000 by year four, ultimately surpassing both the New York state median ($26,078) and approaching national averages. The low debt load of $6,333 means graduates owe less than four months of their fourth-year salary, which is manageable even during those lean early years.

The challenge here is surviving that initial period when earnings lag significantly behind what plumbing graduates typically make elsewhere—even within New York, where Apex Technical School's graduates start at $29,497. With 63% of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are banking on trade school as an affordable path to stable income, and the debt burden won't derail that plan. But the income gap in those first years matters, especially if your child has bills to pay immediately after graduation.

If your child can weather the initial earning period—perhaps living at home or working additional hours—this program eventually delivers solid middle-class wages with minimal debt. The growth curve suggests graduates gain valuable experience and credentials over time. Just don't expect the immediate payoff that many trade programs provide right out of the gate.