Analysis
Similar electrical and power transmission programs across North Carolina produce dramatically different outcomes—Richmond Community College reports first-year earnings of $73,774, while Robeson Community College's graduates start at $40,495. Pitt Community College's program falls somewhere in this range based on national benchmarks, with estimated first-year earnings around $44,727. That's notably below the state median of $57,134 for this field, suggesting students might find stronger outcomes elsewhere in North Carolina.
The estimated debt load of $12,000 is manageable, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27 that most graduates could realistically handle. However, this reasonable borrowing picture doesn't offset the earnings concern. In a state where the typical electrical and power transmission program produces $57,000 in first-year earnings, starting closer to $45,000 represents a significant gap—potentially $12,000 less annually right out of the gate.
For families considering this investment, the key question is whether Pitt's location or other factors justify accepting earnings estimates that trail state peers by 22%. The field itself offers solid middle-class earning potential, but the data suggests this particular program may underperform compared to other North Carolina community colleges offering the same credential. Before committing, contact the school directly to understand their actual graduate outcomes and why they might differ from state averages.
Where Pitt Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all electrical and power transmission installers associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina
Electrical and Power Transmission Installers associates's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (31 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1,972 | $44,727* | — | $12,000* | — | |
| $2,552 | $73,774* | $94,294 | $11,000* | 0.15 | |
| $2,571 | $40,495* | — | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $44,727* | — | $12,748* | 0.29 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with electrical and power transmission installers graduates
Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay
Electricians
First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers
Solar Energy Installation Managers
First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers
Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers
Signal and Track Switch Repairers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Pitt Community College, approximately 38% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 51 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.