Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Edmonds College

Washington's automotive programs cluster tightly around $36,000-$37,000 in first-year earnings, and peer programs nationally suggest Edmonds College's certificate likely falls within this range. At an estimated $9,500 in debt—notably lower than both the state median ($12,162) and national median ($11,000)—this program appears positioned as a lower-cost entry point into automotive work. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.26 suggests manageable repayment: roughly three months of gross income to cover the entire certificate cost.

The challenge lies in what "comparable programs" might not capture. Washington's automotive technician market varies dramatically by specialty—dealership technicians, diesel mechanics, and collision repair specialists all command different wages. Some certificate holders start in quick-lube shops at $30,000 while others land dealership positions closer to $45,000. The estimates here represent an average across these varied outcomes, and Edmonds' specific curriculum focus and employer relationships could push graduates above or below that middle ground.

For parents, this looks like a relatively safe bet if their student is committed to automotive work: low debt exposure with quick entry to employment. But recognize you're making this decision with limited visibility into this specific program's track record. Visit the shop, talk to instructors about where recent graduates actually landed jobs, and confirm whether the certificate alone is sufficient or if additional ASE certifications will be necessary expenses.