Electrical and Power Transmission Installers at Robeson Community College

In North Carolina, electrical and power transmission programs typically launch graduates into strong first-year earnings—the state median sits at $57,134. But Robeson Community College's program falls well short of that mark, with graduates earning $40,495 their first year out. That's a $17,000 gap compared to the typical NC outcome, and roughly $4,200 below the national median for this credential.

The estimated debt load of $12,000—derived from comparable programs at similar institutions—produces a manageable 0.30 debt-to-earnings ratio. That's the bright spot here. Peer programs across North Carolina suggest slightly lower debt (around $11,000), but the difference won't make or break anyone's financial picture. The real issue is the earnings shortfall. When Richmond Community College's program produces first-year earnings of nearly $74,000, it's clear that not all electrical installation programs deliver the same return, even within the same state labor market.

For families weighing this program, the central question is whether location or other constraints make Robeson the only viable option. The debt won't be crushing, but the below-average earnings—if they hold true—mean slower financial progress than graduates from stronger programs will experience. If Richmond or another higher-performing program is accessible, the earnings difference would likely compound significantly over a career in the trades.