Analysis
Michigan's industrial production programs show a wide range of outcomes, and Jackson College's estimated figures suggest positioning closer to national rather than state norms. Based on comparable programs nationwide, graduates might expect around $57,000 in first-year earnings—notably higher than the $43,000 median for Michigan schools like Washtenaw Community College. The estimated $12,000 in debt sits slightly below national benchmarks for this credential, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.21 that would be manageable if these estimates hold true.
The gap between estimated national earnings and actual Michigan outcomes raises questions worth investigating. Similar two-year technical programs in the state typically produce lower starting salaries, which could reflect regional industry demand, the specific skills taught, or simply the limited data available. Jackson College serves a substantial Pell grant population (34%), suggesting students here may have fewer financial cushions if outcomes fall short of projections.
Before committing, talk directly with Jackson's program about job placement specifics—which local employers hire their graduates and at what salaries. The estimates point to solid value if your child can access the higher end of this program's range, but without actual outcome data from this school, you need concrete information about where their graduates actually land.
Where Jackson College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all industrial production technologies/technicians associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians associates's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (23 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $7,040 | $56,704* | — | $12,000* | — | |
| $2,736 | $42,813* | $31,026 | $15,000* | 0.35 | |
| National Median | — | $56,704* | — | $13,500* | 0.24 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with industrial production technologies/technicians graduates
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Semiconductor Processing Technicians
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other
Non-Destructive Testing Specialists
Photonics Technicians
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Jackson College, approximately 34% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 34 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.