Electrical and Power Transmission Installers at Lincoln College of Technology-Columbia

Lincoln College of Technology's electrical transmission program delivers exceptionally low debt relative to similar programs nationwide, but earnings lag the national median by about $4,500 in the first year. That debt load—at just $19,858—ranks in the 5th percentile nationally, meaning 95% of comparable programs saddle graduates with more debt. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49 is manageable, roughly equivalent to six months of gross income, which creates breathing room for new graduates entering the trades.

The earnings picture tells a more nuanced story. While $40,219 places graduates in the 29th percentile nationally, they actually sit at the 60th percentile among Maryland's electrical programs. This suggests the program performs reasonably well within its local market, even if Maryland's overall compensation for these roles trails other states. With 53% of students receiving Pell grants, the low debt burden matters considerably for working-class families—these graduates can enter the workforce without the crushing loan payments common at for-profit technical schools.

For Maryland families considering this career path, the program offers a debt-conscious entry point into skilled trades. Graduates won't start at top-of-market wages, but they also won't spend years digging out from under five-figure loan balances while building experience and certifications that typically boost earnings over time.