Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Chippewa Valley Technical College

Chippewa Valley Technical College's auto tech program delivers straightforward job placement at roughly $38,000—right around the Wisconsin median for these programs but trailing several competitors by $5,000-8,000 annually. Fox Valley and Gateway grads earn 15-20% more in the same field, which adds up to $35,000-40,000 more over five years. The 60th percentile ranking within Wisconsin tells you this program performs respectably but isn't a top-tier option in the state.

The debt load of $9,500 is manageable and slightly below the state median, making this a low-risk credential even if earnings don't climb much. With virtually flat earnings growth from year one to year four, graduates should expect their starting wage to be their wage—about what you'd earn as an entry-level automotive technician in the Eau Claire area. That stability has value: there's consistent work in vehicle repair, and the debt won't become a burden.

For families prioritizing proximity to Eau Claire or strong relationships with local dealerships and repair shops, this program works fine. But if your student can attend Fox Valley or Gateway instead, the higher earnings justify the trip—those programs are producing technicians who command notably better wages in the same Wisconsin job market.