Precision Metal Working at Tulsa Welding School-Tulsa

This precision metal working program delivers solid value, particularly when considering Oklahoma's job market. While the first-year earnings of $31,821 rank in just the 29th percentile nationally, they place in the 60th percentile among Oklahoma programs—meaning graduates earn more than most peers in their home state where they're likely to work. The $9,500 debt load is reasonable and actually lower than Oklahoma's median of $12,662 for this field.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.30 is manageable, meaning graduates can expect to earn back their full program cost in about four months of work. More encouraging is the 23% earnings growth to $39,102 by year four, suggesting good career progression potential. With 68% of students receiving Pell grants, this program clearly serves working-class students seeking accessible career training.

The key takeaway: This program works well as a regional play. While it won't make your child a top national earner in precision metal working, it provides solid preparation for Oklahoma's manufacturing sector at a reasonable cost. The combination of below-state-average debt and above-state-average earnings creates a practical pathway to middle-class employment for students who want to stay in Oklahoma.