Precision Metal Working at Anoka Technical College
a smaller institution with 1,522 students in Anoka, MN.
Program Analysis
Graduates of Anoka Technical College's Precision Metal Working program earn $49,632/yr in their first year — 35% above the $36,869 national median, a strong market signal for this institution.
With a 88.9x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 10% spread between best and worst-case AI scenarios signals strong resilience. Most careers in Precision Metal Working involve physical, hands-on work that current AI cannot replicate.
At $7,145 in median debt against $49,632 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
At #33 of 355 programs, this Precision Metal Working program outperforms the majority of its peers. The top 10% ranking reflects consistently above-average outcomes.
The limited growth from $49,632 to $56,646 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.
The 131 apprenticeship pathways connected to Precision Metal Working reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Precision Metal Working graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer numerically controlled tool programmers | $65,670 | +12.8% | 20% |
| Tool and die makers | $63,180 | -10.8% | 81% |
| Model makers, metal and plastic | $62,700 | -18.2% | 84% |
About Precision Metal Working Careers
You’ll begin your career with your hands on the tools of the trade. As a welder, you could be fusing steel beams high on a construction site or meticulously joining pipes for critical infrastructure. As a machinist, you might work from complex blueprints, operating lathes and mills to craft high-tolerance parts for the aerospace or medical industries. Most paths start with an apprenticeship, learning directly from seasoned professionals on the job.