Precision Metal Working at Midwest Technical Institute-Illinois

This Precision Metal Working program at Midwest Technical Institute delivers underwhelming earnings compared to national standards, with graduates earning $31,630 in their first year—nearly $5,000 below the national median of $36,248. While the program ranks in the 40th percentile among Illinois schools (essentially average for the state), it falls to just the 28th percentile nationally, meaning roughly three-quarters of similar programs elsewhere produce better-paying outcomes.

The financial picture is mixed but manageable. At $9,500 in median debt, graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.30, which is reasonable and allows most students to service their loans without financial strain. However, the modest 7% earnings growth over four years ($33,836 by year four) suggests limited advancement potential compared to top-performing programs in Illinois that start graduates at $37,000-$39,000 annually.

The program serves a predominantly working-class student body (63% receive Pell grants), but several Illinois alternatives offer significantly better outcomes. Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park and Universal Technical Institute both place graduates earning $37,000-$39,000 right out of the gate. Unless location or specific program features make this school uniquely attractive, your child would likely achieve better financial returns at these higher-performing Illinois alternatives while staying in-state for tuition benefits.