Precision Metal Working at Texas State Technical College
Associate's Degree
Analysis
Texas State Technical College's precision metal working program proves that sticker price isn't everything—graduates here carry just $9,168 in debt while reaching nearly $50,000 in earnings by year four. That's $3,000 less debt than the national median for this field, and earnings that climb 26% over four years, outpacing the typical flat trajectory in skilled trades. While starting pay ($39,234) sits below the national median, this program ranks solidly in the 60th percentile among Texas competitors, beating schools like Trinity Valley and South Texas College.
The strong earnings growth sets this program apart. Four years out, graduates are earning more than the national median for precision metal workers, suggesting they're developing skills that translate into real advancement opportunities. The debt load is particularly manageable—taking home $39,234 in year one with under $10,000 in debt means this investment pays back quickly.
For families watching every dollar, this program delivers tangible upside: low debt, steady earnings growth, and outcomes that beat most Texas alternatives. The 45% Pell grant rate indicates this school serves working-class students well, making it a practical choice for students seeking stable manufacturing careers without gambling on heavy debt loads.
Where Texas State Technical College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all precision metal working associates's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Texas State Technical College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Texas State Technical College graduates earn $39k, placing them in the 31th percentile of all precision metal working associates programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Precision Metal Working associates's programs at peer institutions in Texas (41 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas State Technical College | $39,234 | $49,323 | $9,168 | 0.23 |
| Austin Community College District | $45,279 | $48,510 | $14,122 | 0.31 |
| Trinity Valley Community College | $35,123 | $45,541 | — | — |
| South Texas College | $33,167 | — | — | — |
| Vernon College | $32,206 | $37,399 | $5,500 | 0.17 |
| National Median | $41,504 | — | $12,000 | 0.29 |
Other Precision Metal Working Programs in Texas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austin Community College District Austin | $2,550 | $45,279 | $14,122 |
| Trinity Valley Community College Athens | $2,640 | $35,123 | — |
| South Texas College McAllen | $4,920 | $33,167 | — |
| Vernon College Vernon | $4,080 | $32,206 | $5,500 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Texas State Technical College, approximately 45% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 192 graduates with reported earnings and 155 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.