Precision Metal Working at Houston Community College

Houston Community College's Precision Metal Working certificate graduates start at just $27,696—well below both the Texas median ($30,105) and the national average for this program. While this places them at the 40th percentile statewide, it's concerning that similar programs at San Jacinto Community College and Lone Star College System—also Houston-area community colleges—deliver 30-50% higher starting salaries. The gap suggests either weaker industry connections or different specializations within metalworking that command lower wages.

The program does show solid 20% earnings growth over four years, bringing graduates to $33,168, though even this improved figure lags significantly behind what graduates from top Texas programs earn immediately. At $10,022, the debt burden remains manageable, translating to monthly payments that wouldn't overwhelm these earnings. However, you're essentially financing training for a career that starts below what many retail management positions offer in Houston's job market.

For a family weighing options, this program makes sense only if your child has a specific passion for precision metalwork or a clear job offer lined up. Otherwise, exploring similar programs at San Jacinto or Lone Star—both accessible Houston-area alternatives—could mean earning $10,000-15,000 more annually right from the start. That earnings difference compounds over a career and matters considerably more than the modest debt here.