Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Glendale Community College

In Arizona, automotive technology programs show stark variation in outcomes, and Glendale's program appears to land in the middle of the pack. Based on comparable programs statewide, graduates here can expect around $40,200 in first-year earnings—substantially below what Pima Community College reports ($52,673) but consistent with other technical institutes in the state. The four-year earnings figure of $40,454 suggests income stays relatively flat in early career years, which is typical in automotive repair but means the initial salary largely determines long-term prospects.

The financial picture offers some reassurance. At an estimated $11,425 in debt—well below both the state median of $17,368 and the national average of $12,000—this program keeps borrowing manageable. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28 means graduates would owe roughly three months of salary, a level that shouldn't strain most household budgets. While earnings lag behind the national median for automotive programs ($42,896), the conservative debt load creates breathing room.

The real question is whether your child can access better-performing programs in Arizona. Pima's substantially higher earnings suggest that not all automotive programs are equal, and since we're working with estimated rather than actual outcomes for Glendale, the difference between schools matters more than usual. If Pima is accessible, compare total costs carefully—but if Glendale is the local option, the modest debt burden makes this a viable path into steady work.