Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Nicolet Area Technical College

Wisconsin's automotive technology programs typically produce stronger earnings than the national average—around $46,600 compared to $42,900 nationally—which puts this program's estimated outcomes at the lower end of what's typical in-state. Based on comparable programs, graduates can expect first-year earnings near $43,000, about $3,700 below what Wisconsin programs usually deliver. For context, Fox Valley Technical College's auto program reports nearly $48,000 in first-year earnings, suggesting there may be better options within the state for maximizing earning potential in this field.

The estimated debt load of $11,425 aligns closely with what other Wisconsin auto programs carry, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27. That means you'd owe roughly three months' salary, which is reasonable for a technical credential. However, the value calculation depends heavily on whether actual outcomes match these peer-based estimates. Auto mechanics is a field where wages can vary significantly based on specialization, employer type, and geographic location within Wisconsin.

For a rural northern Wisconsin school, the key question is whether local job opportunities align with these earnings projections. If your student plans to work in the Rhinelander area rather than move to urban markets like Green Bay or Milwaukee, verify that regional wages support these figures before committing.