Median Earnings (1yr)
$50,745
82nd percentile
60th percentile in California
Est. Median Debt
$7,416
Est. from national median (56 programs)

Analysis

This electrical trades program at LA Trade-Tech positions graduates for strong earning potential in a high-demand field, with first-year wages of $50,745 reaching $65,500 by year four—well above both the national median ($38,716) and California's average for similar programs ($41,498). That's impressive performance in a state with 50 competing programs, many of which cluster around $43,000 in first-year earnings. The estimated debt burden of roughly $7,400—derived from similar certificate programs nationally—represents just three months of starting wages, a manageable load for tradespeople entering the electrical field.

The earnings trajectory deserves particular attention: the 29% jump from year one to year four suggests graduates are gaining valuable experience and certifications that command higher pay. In Los Angeles, where electrical work on commercial buildings, infrastructure projects, and power systems creates steady demand, these progression rates make practical sense. While we can't know the exact debt picture for LA Trade-Tech's specific cohorts, similar short-term programs nationally average $9,500 in borrowing, and this program's estimated figure sits below that benchmark.

For families weighing trade school options, this combination—strong starting wages, rapid earnings growth, and what appears to be modest borrowing—represents a compelling value proposition, especially compared to longer degree programs with uncertain outcomes. The key question is whether your student can handle the physical demands and technical precision this field requires.

Where Los Angeles Trade Technical College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all electrical and power transmission installers certificate's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How Los Angeles Trade Technical College graduates compare to all programs nationally

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

School1 Year4 YearsGrowth
Los Angeles Trade Technical College$50,745$65,500+29%
Southern California Institute of Technology$38,716$49,507+28%
Institute for Business and Technology$36,261$46,753+29%
National Career Education$36,261$46,753+29%
InterCoast Colleges-Fairfield$40,101$43,492+8%

Compare to Similar Programs in California

Electrical and Power Transmission Installers certificate's programs at peer institutions in California (50 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median Debt*Debt/Earnings
Los Angeles Trade Technical CollegeLos Angeles$1,238$50,745$65,500$7,416*—
San Joaquin Valley College-OntarioOntario—$43,388—$12,727*0.29
San Joaquin Valley College-BakersfieldBakersfield—$43,388—$12,727*0.29
San Joaquin Valley College-VisaliaVisalia—$43,388—$12,727*0.29
San Joaquin Valley College-Trades Education CenterFresno—$43,388—$12,727*0.29
San Joaquin Valley College-ModestoSalida—$43,388—$12,727*0.29
National Median—$38,716—$9,500*0.25
* Estimated from similar programs

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with electrical and power transmission installers graduates

Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers

Install or repair cables or wires used in electrical power or distribution systems. May erect poles and light or heavy duty transmission towers.

$92,560/yrJobs growth:High school diploma or equivalent

Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay

Inspect, test, repair, or maintain electrical equipment in generating stations, substations, and in-service relays.

$71,270/yrJobs growth:

Electricians

Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes. May install or service street lights, intercom systems, or electrical control systems.

$62,350/yrJobs growth:High school diploma or equivalent

First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers

Directly supervise and coordinate activities of construction or extraction workers.

Solar Energy Installation Managers

Direct work crews installing residential or commercial solar photovoltaic or thermal systems.

First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers

Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of mechanics, installers, and repairers. May also advise customers on recommended services. Excludes team or work leaders.

Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers

Install, program, maintain, and repair security and fire alarm wiring and equipment. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes.

Signal and Track Switch Repairers

Install, inspect, test, maintain, or repair electric gate crossings, signals, signal equipment, track switches, section lines, or intercommunications systems within a railroad system.

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 Los Angeles Trade Technical College, approximately 31% 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 19 graduates with reported earnings and 11 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.