Electrical and Power Transmission Installers at Lincoln College of Technology-Columbia
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
Lincoln College of Technology's electrical transmission program offers a practical pathway to stable blue-collar work, though it performs modestly compared to the national landscape. While graduates earn slightly less than the national median ($35,880 versus $38,716 in the first year), they carry exceptionally low debt—ranking in just the 7th percentile nationally at $13,532. This creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38, meaning graduates can realistically pay off their loans within a reasonable timeframe.
The program's Maryland context tells a more favorable story. Among the state's three electrical transmission programs, Lincoln College ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, making it a solid middle-tier choice for Maryland residents. The 19% earnings growth from year one to year four ($35,880 to $42,521) demonstrates that graduates see meaningful salary progression as they gain experience in the field.
For parents considering this program, the key selling point is financial accessibility rather than exceptional earning potential. The combination of low debt and steady employment prospects in electrical work makes this a relatively safe investment, particularly for students seeking immediate entry into the workforce without the extended commitment and costs of a four-year degree.
Where Lincoln College of Technology-Columbia Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all electrical and power transmission installers certificate's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Lincoln College of Technology-Columbia graduates compare to all programs nationally
Lincoln College of Technology-Columbia graduates earn $36k, placing them in the 40th percentile of all electrical and power transmission installers certificate programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Maryland
Electrical and Power Transmission Installers certificate's programs at peer institutions in Maryland (3 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lincoln College of Technology-Columbia | $35,880 | $42,521 | $13,532 | 0.38 |
| National Median | $38,716 | — | $9,500 | 0.25 |
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 Lincoln College of Technology-Columbia, approximately 53% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 330 graduates with reported earnings and 359 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.