Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Waukesha County Technical College

The four-year earnings figure of $42,903 suggests this automotive certificate leads to steady income growth, but Waukesha County Technical College's program faces stiff in-state competition. Fox Valley Technical College graduates earn nearly $3,000 more in their first year and maintain that advantage long-term. With estimated debt around $8,688—below the national median of $11,000 and representing just 23% of first-year earnings—the financial risk stays manageable. However, these initial earnings estimates come from the state median for vehicle maintenance programs, not Waukesha's actual graduates, so there's uncertainty about whether this program matches or trails its peers.

What works in this program's favor is the relatively low debt load combined with clear income progression from year one to year four. That $5,600 jump shows automotive techs typically see meaningful wage growth as they gain experience and certifications. The low Pell grant percentage (11%) suggests this program primarily serves students with some financial resources, which may indicate strong local industry connections or placement support that doesn't show up in the raw numbers.

Before committing, your child should investigate why several Wisconsin technical colleges produce stronger first-year outcomes. Talk to Waukesha's career services about specific employer partnerships and job placement rates—these details matter when comparable programs show a $7,000-$8,000 earnings advantage that compounds over a career.