Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians at SUNY College of Technology at Delhi

With estimated earnings around $45,000 in the first year and climbing to nearly $57,000 by year four, this engineering technology program appears to follow the typical trajectory for drafting and design fields nationally. The estimated debt of roughly $13,000—based on what similar associate degree programs at SUNY Delhi typically produce—translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29, well within manageable territory. These aren't this specific program's reported outcomes (the graduate cohort was too small to publish), but the pattern mirrors what you'd expect from technical training that leads directly to work in manufacturing, construction, or product design.

The meaningful jump from year one to year four earnings suggests CAD technicians and design drafters gain value through experience, which is common in fields where software proficiency and industry knowledge compound over time. However, without actual data from Delhi's program specifically, you're placing some faith that their training aligns with national standards for drafting technology education. The 88% admission rate and high Pell enrollment indicate this is an accessible program serving working-class students—often a good sign for career-focused technical degrees that prioritize job placement over selectivity.

If your child thrives in technical environments and enjoys precision work, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value. Just recognize you're making this decision with less certainty than you'd have with larger programs that produce reportable data.