Precision Metal Working at School of Automotive Machinists & Technology

At $43,065 in first-year earnings, graduates from this Houston machining program earn 43% more than the Texas median for similar programs—landing it in the 80th percentile statewide. Only Amarillo College and San Jacinto Community College produce notably higher earnings among Texas metal working programs. The $16,354 in typical debt is higher than most programs in this field, but the 0.38 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can theoretically pay off their loans in less than five months of gross income, assuming aggressive repayment.

The real strength here is trajectory: earnings climb to $50,472 by year four, a 17% gain that suggests these machinists are developing valuable specialized skills. That's considerably stronger than many vocational credentials where workers plateau quickly. The program serves a meaningful share of lower-income students (38% on Pell grants) and channels them into Houston's industrial economy, where precision metalworking skills command consistent premiums.

The higher price tag compared to community college alternatives deserves scrutiny—you're paying roughly double the typical debt for this type of program. But if your child is mechanically inclined and wants direct access to Houston's manufacturing sector, the earnings data suggests the premium delivers. The moderate sample size means these numbers are reasonably reliable, and the strong state ranking indicates this isn't a fluke.