Precision Metal Working at Fortis College-Cincinnati

This program's earnings lag significantly behind what's typical for precision metal working graduates in Ohio. At $31,899 in the first year, graduates earn about $7,000 less than the state median for this field—ranking in just the 25th percentile among Ohio's 61 schools offering this certificate. The gap widens when you look at what top Ohio programs achieve: Hobart Institute of Welding Technology graduates earn $45,370, nearly 50% more than Fortis-Cincinnati. Even Butler Technology schools and Great Oaks Career Campuses consistently place graduates above $41,000.

The debt picture offers one bright spot—at $13,000, it's relatively manageable compared to the national median of $9,000, though still higher than most Ohio competitors. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 means graduates owe about five months of their first-year salary, which is workable but only if those earnings actually cover living expenses in Cincinnati. The modest 5% earnings growth to year four suggests incomes will remain tight.

For families considering this program, the question is simple: why choose a school where graduates consistently earn thousands less than state peers? With 78% of students receiving Pell grants, this population can least afford underwhelming outcomes. Unless location constraints make alternatives impossible, the stronger-performing technical schools across Ohio offer substantially better returns on the same investment of time and money.