Precision Metal Working at NTMA Machinist Career College

NTMA Machinist Career College's precision metalworking program serves a predominantly working-class student body (67% receive Pell grants) and delivers middle-of-the-road outcomes. Starting at $38,259, graduates earn about 16% more than the state median for this field and rank in the 60th percentile among California's 87 programs. The debt load of $8,418 is manageable—just three months of first-year earnings—and lower than typical for this credential. With consistent 10% earnings growth to $42,216 by year four, graduates see steady if unspectacular progress in their trades.

The program falls noticeably behind California's top performers like Santa Ana College ($45,864) but represents a reasonable entry point into manufacturing careers. For families concerned about training costs, the low debt burden matters more here than at programs with six-figure earnings potential. Most students leave owing less than a used car payment.

The real question is whether these earnings justify even this modest investment when higher-paying alternatives exist in-state. For students who need flexible scheduling or prefer hands-on training over community college, NTMA provides a viable path. For those with more options, exploring programs at the top of California's range could mean $7,000+ more annually from day one.