Precision Metal Working at Ohio Technical College

Ohio Technical College's precision metal working program delivers exactly what you'd expect: solid skilled trades training at a reasonable price. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.20 is excellent—your child would graduate owing less than three months' salary, far below the national median debt of $12,000 for this field. That manageable debt load matters tremendously for someone entering a hands-on trade where earnings growth depends more on experience and specialization than credential stacking.

The earnings picture is more nuanced. At $38,861 first year out, graduates land right at Ohio's median for this program—essentially the middle of the pack statewide. However, this trails the national median by about $2,600. Precision metal working typically pays better in states with stronger manufacturing sectors or higher costs of living, which explains why Ohio programs cluster below the national average. Within Ohio's metalworking landscape, this program performs adequately but not exceptionally.

For a parent, this represents a straightforward calculation: low debt, steady entry into manufacturing work, but not top-tier earnings potential. If your child is drawn to metalworking and wants to stay in Ohio, the minimal debt exposure makes this a safe bet. The real earnings growth will come from what they do after graduation—certifications, specializations, and moving into CNC programming or quality control roles where experienced metalworkers can command significantly more.