Analysis
Based on comparable programs across Minnesota, this electrical and power transmission installer program estimates first-year earnings around $47,800—right at the state median and above the $44,700 national figure. With projected debt of just $12,000, that creates a favorable 0.25 debt-to-earnings ratio where graduates would owe roughly three months' salary. This positions Lake Superior College's program competitively within Minnesota's cluster of similar offerings, though it's worth noting that Dakota County Technical College's graduates earn about $5,700 more in their first year.
The trades typically reward credential holders quickly, and electrical work offers stable demand across Minnesota's diverse economy—from the Iron Range's industrial operations to the Twin Cities' construction market. The estimated debt load here is manageable enough that graduates should be able to handle payments while building their careers, even if actual outcomes for this specific cohort vary somewhat from the state pattern.
For parents, the key consideration is whether their student plans to stay in the region. Duluth's location might limit immediate job opportunities compared to metro-area schools, potentially affecting whether actual earnings match these statewide projections. If your child has connections to northern Minnesota's industrial sector or mining operations, this program offers solid preparation at a reasonable cost. If they're more likely to work in the Twin Cities, comparing the program directly against Dakota County or Dunwoody makes sense.
Where Lake Superior College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all electrical and power transmission installers associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Minnesota
Electrical and Power Transmission Installers associates's programs at peer institutions in Minnesota (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,786 | $47,806* | — | $12,000* | — | |
| $6,419 | $53,566* | $54,519 | $12,947* | 0.24 | |
| $25,659 | $47,888* | $61,041 | $14,966* | 0.31 | |
| $6,484 | $47,723* | $68,336 | $12,000* | 0.25 | |
| $6,246 | $44,727* | — | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $44,727* | — | $12,748* | 0.29 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with electrical and power transmission installers graduates
Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay
Electricians
First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers
Solar Energy Installation Managers
First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers
Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers
Signal and Track Switch Repairers
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 Lake Superior College, approximately 19% 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 median of 4 similar programs in MN. Actual outcomes may vary.