Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians at Cayuga County Community College

A $38,800 estimated salary from similar electrical engineering technology certificates nationally positions this short-term credential squarely in skilled trades territory—not spectacular, but potentially workable if the debt estimate of $9,400 proves accurate. That 0.24 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests the program could pay for itself within a year if graduates secure typical technician roles in manufacturing, utilities, or construction. However, the fact that neither earnings nor debt figures come from Cayuga's actual graduates means you're essentially betting on whether this specific program matches the national pattern of 14 peer programs—some of which might be in stronger job markets or have better industry connections.

The real concern is the ceiling. Even at the 75th percentile nationally, electrical engineering technicians with certificates top out around $57,400—a reminder that this credential trains for support roles, not engineering positions. For context, New York has eight schools offering this certificate, but none publish graduate outcomes, which could signal either very small cohorts or programs still finding their footing. If your child is mechanically inclined and wants quick entry into a technical field without racking up four-year debt, this path has merit. But demand hard numbers from the school about job placement rates and local employer partnerships before committing, since you're essentially navigating without this program's actual track record.