Electrical and Power Transmission Installers at Midlands Technical College

Technical training in electrical work can lead to solid middle-class careers, but this certificate's estimated numbers tell an incomplete story. Based on similar programs nationally, graduates might expect around $39,000 in their first year—roughly $6,000 more than the state median for electrical programs in South Carolina. The estimated $7,400 in debt falls comfortably below both state and national averages, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.19.

Here's what matters practically: if these estimates hold, a graduate could pay off their debt in about three months of gross earnings. That's attractive on paper, especially for students who need to enter the workforce quickly. However, the wide range of outcomes for electrical programs—from $32,000 to $47,000 nationally—suggests that local job markets, union presence, and the specific type of electrical work matter enormously. South Carolina's lower median compared to the national figure hints that this isn't a universally high-earning state for this trade.

The uncertainty here cuts both ways. Midlands Technical serves a substantial population of Pell-eligible students (39%), suggesting it's accessible to working families. But without actual graduate outcomes from this specific program, you're essentially betting that Midlands' training and local employer connections will match or exceed what peer programs deliver. If your child is already committed to electrical work and staying in South Carolina, the low estimated debt makes this a reasonable gamble—but verify local starting wages and job placement before enrolling.