Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Red Rocks Community College

With relatively modest estimated debt of $11,425 against first-year earnings around $41,000, this automotive program appears financially manageable—but context matters. Similar programs in Colorado show a wide earnings spread, from under $39,000 to over $57,000 annually, which suggests that where you train and which employers you connect with can make a substantial difference in this field. Red Rocks' estimated outcomes sit right at the state median, meaning this is neither a standout program nor a particularly risky one based on what peer institutions typically produce.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28 is reasonable, especially compared to Colorado's state median debt of over $17,000 for this credential. Automotive technicians in Colorado face a competitive job market where dealerships, independent shops, and specialty repair facilities pay vastly different rates. The difference between the top-performing programs and the median is significant enough—potentially $16,000 more annually—that prospective students should investigate whether Red Rocks maintains strong employer partnerships with higher-paying shops and dealerships. The low Pell grant percentage suggests this campus may serve a relatively affluent student population, which could influence networking opportunities but tells you little about program quality itself.

Bottom line: If your child can complete this degree near the estimated debt figure and secure placement at a quality employer, the numbers work. But given how much earnings vary across Colorado programs, dig into Red Rocks' job placement specifics and starting wage ranges before committing.