Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Des Moines Area Community College

Des Moines Area Community College's automotive program graduates earn $52,325 in their first year—nearly $10,000 above the national median and ranking in the 94th percentile nationally. At less than $10,000 in typical debt, students here graduate owing roughly two months' salary, one of the lowest debt burdens you'll find for any technical program. The modest 0.18 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can realistically pay off loans quickly while building savings.

Within Iowa, this program sits in the middle of the pack at the 60th percentile, with a handful of community colleges posting slightly higher earnings. But the real story is how graduates perform compared to most automotive programs nationwide. The $4,000 earnings advantage over Iowa's state median and $9,500 over the national figure suggests strong industry connections and placement into higher-paying shops or dealerships. Earnings grow steadily to $56,356 by year four, a healthy trajectory for skilled trades.

For parents concerned about vocational training ROI, this checks every box: strong immediate earnings, minimal debt, and earnings that comfortably exceed what most Americans earn in any field. The combination of low financial risk and high national standing makes this program particularly compelling for students who enjoy hands-on work and want financial independence quickly after graduation.