Electrical and Power Transmission Installers at San Joaquin Valley College-Modesto

San Joaquin Valley College-Modesto's electrical program sits at an unusual crossroads: graduates earn below the national median but match the California state median exactly, landing at the 60th percentile among California schools. With first-year earnings of $39,410 and debt of $18,956, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48 is reasonable—you're borrowing roughly half of what you'll earn in your first year. However, the $5,000 earnings gap compared to national graduates in this field deserves attention, particularly since electricians typically command strong wages nationwide.

The state context matters here. California's electrical programs appear to produce lower median earnings than the national average ($39,410 vs. $44,727), and this program matches that state norm precisely. Interestingly, all San Joaquin Valley College campuses report identical outcomes for this program, which raises questions about data reporting but suggests consistency across their system. More than half the students receive Pell grants, indicating the program serves primarily working-class families.

For families considering this path, the manageable debt load is the strongest selling point—it's in the 5th percentile nationally, meaning 95% of similar programs leave students with more debt. The earnings, while not exceptional, provide a living wage in many California communities. If your child is committed to electrical work and staying in California, this program won't saddle them with crushing debt. Just know they're starting near the middle of the pack, not the top.