Est. Earnings (1yr)
$46,587
Est. from GA median (4 programs)
Est. Median Debt
$7,416
Est. from national median (56 programs)

Analysis

Columbus Technical College's electrical program shows promise based on what similar Georgia programs deliver, though without school-specific data, families are working with educated guesses rather than verified outcomes. The estimated $46,587 first-year earnings align with the state median for these programs, but Georgia's electrical training landscape varies dramatically—from Augusta Tech's impressive $67,000 to Lincoln Tech's concerning $31,000. Where Columbus Tech lands on that spectrum remains unclear.

The estimated $7,416 debt figure would be exceptional if accurate—well below both the national median of $9,500 and Georgia's $13,231. Combined with the earnings estimate, this suggests a debt load that graduates could potentially clear in just two months of work. That's a favorable setup for a skilled trade, particularly at an institution serving a predominantly working-class population. The electrical field typically offers strong long-term earning potential once workers gain experience and certifications.

The core challenge here is uncertainty. These estimates come from peer programs across Georgia, but they can't tell you whether Columbus Tech's specific curriculum, local employer connections, or job placement support matches the stronger performers in the state. For a certificate program in the trades, asking the school directly about graduate outcomes, employer partnerships in the Columbus area, and apprenticeship opportunities would be essential before committing—even to relatively modest debt.

Where Columbus Technical College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all electrical and power transmission installers certificate's programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia

Electrical and Power Transmission Installers certificate's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (24 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)*Earnings (4yr)Median Debt*Debt/Earnings
Columbus Technical CollegeColumbus$3,042$46,587*—$7,416*—
Augusta Technical CollegeAugusta$4,022$67,147*$30,929$11,875*0.18
South Georgia Technical CollegeAmericus$3,782$51,498*——*—
North Georgia Technical CollegeClarkesville$3,162$41,675*$49,825—*—
Lincoln College of Technology-MariettaMarietta—$31,480*—$14,587*0.46
National Median—$38,716*—$9,500*0.25
* Estimated from similar programs

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with electrical and power transmission installers graduates

Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers

Install or repair cables or wires used in electrical power or distribution systems. May erect poles and light or heavy duty transmission towers.

$92,560/yrJobs growth:High school diploma or equivalent

Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay

Inspect, test, repair, or maintain electrical equipment in generating stations, substations, and in-service relays.

$71,270/yrJobs growth:

Electricians

Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes. May install or service street lights, intercom systems, or electrical control systems.

$62,350/yrJobs growth:High school diploma or equivalent

First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers

Directly supervise and coordinate activities of construction or extraction workers.

Solar Energy Installation Managers

Direct work crews installing residential or commercial solar photovoltaic or thermal systems.

First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers

Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of mechanics, installers, and repairers. May also advise customers on recommended services. Excludes team or work leaders.

Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers

Install, program, maintain, and repair security and fire alarm wiring and equipment. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes.

Signal and Track Switch Repairers

Install, inspect, test, maintain, or repair electric gate crossings, signals, signal equipment, track switches, section lines, or intercommunications systems within a railroad system.

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Columbus Technical College, approximately 54% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 4 similar programs in GA. Actual outcomes may vary.