Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Everett Community College

A debt load around $9,500 for an automotive certificate looks manageable on paper, but the earnings picture based on comparable programs suggests this might be tighter than parents hope. First-year earnings in the mid-$30,000s—typical for vehicle maintenance certificates nationally—leave just enough breathing room with a 0.26 debt-to-earnings ratio, but that's below what skilled trades should deliver in Washington's relatively strong job market. Similar programs across the state show graduates earning around $36,740, which isn't dramatically different but represents thousands more annually. The real concern is whether these estimated figures reflect the specific training quality and industry connections at Everett, factors that can swing outcomes significantly in hands-on technical fields.

Washington's automotive programs span a wide range, from those producing $37,000+ earners to others lagging behind. Without actual graduate data from Everett, you're betting that their shop equipment, instructor networks, and dealer relationships match those of stronger performers in the state. The debt estimate is at least below the state median of $12,162, which matters when starting salaries in this field rarely exceed $40,000. If your student is mechanically inclined and committed to the trade, this could work—but given the uncertainty, it's worth visiting the program, talking to employers who hire their graduates, and confirming whether Everett's specific outcomes justify even this modest investment.