Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Clovis Community College

The estimated $9,500 debt load for this automotive certificate suggests a relatively manageable burden compared to the national median of $11,000 for similar programs. With first-year earnings around $36,000—typical for automotive technician certificates nationwide—graduates would owe roughly three months of gross income, which puts them in a reasonable position to begin paying down loans while establishing their careers. The concern isn't the debt itself, but rather that New Mexico's 18 automotive programs vary widely in quality, and we're working with national estimates rather than outcomes specific to Clovis graduates.

The automotive repair field offers stable employment, but first-year earnings in this range can feel tight, especially when stretched across rent, vehicle expenses, and loan payments in a state where cost of living is rising. What these estimates can't tell you is whether Clovis has strong employer partnerships in the region or how quickly their graduates move beyond entry-level wages. In skilled trades, the trajectory matters as much as the starting point—technicians who specialize or earn ASE certifications typically see meaningful salary growth within a few years.

Given the limited data, visit the campus and ask direct questions: What percentage of graduates find jobs within six months? Which local employers hire their students? What's the average debt for completers? The estimated numbers suggest this could be a practical investment, but you'll need to verify that Clovis specifically delivers results that match or beat these national benchmarks.