Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Grays Harbor College

Similar automotive technology programs in Washington suggest first-year earnings around $43,000—a figure that closely tracks both state and national benchmarks for this field. With estimated debt of $11,425, graduates would face monthly loan payments of roughly $130, manageable on an automotive technician's starting salary. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27 indicates the program shouldn't create overwhelming financial pressure for most graduates.

What's harder to gauge is how Grays Harbor's program specifically stacks up against Washington's other automotive schools. Clark College graduates reportedly earn $45,656, while Spokane Community College sits at $38,197—showing considerable variation across the state. Location matters in this trade: Aberdeen's smaller market likely offers fewer dealership and specialty shop opportunities than the Puget Sound region, which could affect both starting wages and career advancement options.

The estimated numbers suggest reasonable value—you're looking at modest debt for entry into a stable skilled trade—but the lack of school-specific outcomes means you're betting on Grays Harbor matching its peers. Talk directly with the program about job placement rates, where graduates actually work (local shops versus traveling for better markets), and whether they have relationships with specific employers. In automotive repair, hands-on training quality and industry connections often matter more than the credential itself.